Projection apparatus

ABSTRACT

An object of the present invention is to provide a projection apparatus capable of appropriately performing control relating to a rotation state and/or a movement state of a projection lens. A projection apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes a housing; a light source; a control unit; and a projection lens attached to the housing, the projection lens having a holder, a detection unit that detects a rotation state of the holder, an emission optical system, and a locking mechanism unit that brings rotation of the holder into a locked state or an unlocked state. The projection lens is displaceable between a first position at which a rotation state of the holder is a housed state in which the emission optical system faces the housing and a second position at which the emission optical system does not face the housing by rotating the holder. The second position includes an upper position at which the emission optical system faces an upper side in a vertical direction. The control unit turns off the light source when a rotation state of the holder is the first position. The control unit turns on the light source when the rotation state of the holder is at the upper position. When the light source is turned on in the housed state in which the emission optical system faces the housing, the light emitted from the emission optical system hits the housing, and the temperatures of the projection lens and the housing may increase, which may cause an adverse effect. However, when the rotation state is the housed state, the control unit turns off the light source, thereby preventing the adverse effect.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a Continuation of PCT InternationalApplication No. PCT/JP2019/040645 filed on Oct. 16, 2019 claimingpriority under 35 U.S.C § 119(a) to Japanese Patent Application No.2018-213325 filed on Nov. 13, 2018. Each of the above applications ishereby expressly incorporated by reference, in its entirety, into thepresent application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a projection apparatus.

2. Description of the Related Art

As a projection apparatus (projector) that projects an image or the likeon a screen, a wall surface, or the like, a type in which a projectiondirection is fixed has been used; however, a projection apparatuscapable of changing a projection direction is being developed in recentyears. For example, WO2018/055964A describes a projection apparatuscapable of changing a projection direction by rotating a projection lenshaving a holder. WO2018/055964A also describes that a mount portion forthe projection lens is moved relative to a housing by a shift mechanism.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In the technology described in WO2018/055964A, it is only described thatthe rotation state or the movement state of the projection lens ischanged, and control on the rotation state or the movement state inconsideration of the relationship with a light source or a power source,or the relationship between the rotation state and the movement state isnot considered.

The present invention is made in light of the situation and an object ofthe invention is to provide a projection apparatus capable ofappropriately performing control relating to a rotation state and/or amovement state of a projection lens.

To attain the above-described object, a projection apparatus accordingto a first aspect of the present invention includes a housing; a lightsource; a control unit; and a projection lens attached to the housing,the projection lens having a holder, a detection unit that detects arotation state of the holder, an emission optical system, and a lockingmechanism unit that brings rotation of the holder into a locked state oran unlocked state. The projection lens is displaceable between a firstposition at which a rotation state of the holder is a housed state inwhich the emission optical system faces the housing and a secondposition at which the emission optical system does not face the housingby rotating the holder. The second position includes an upper positionat which the emission optical system faces an upper side in a verticaldirection. The control unit turns off the light source when a rotationstate of the holder is the first position. The control unit turns on thelight source when the projection lens is at the upper position. When thelight source is turned on in the housed state in which the emissionoptical system faces the housing, the light emitted from the emissionoptical system hits the housing, and the temperatures of the projectionlens and the housing may increase, which may cause an adverse effect.However, when the rotation state is the housed state like the firstaspect, the control unit turns off the light source, thereby preventingthe adverse effect.

As described above, with the projection apparatus according to the firstaspect, it is possible to appropriately control the light source inaccordance with the rotation state of the projection lens (the rotationrelationship of the projection lens with respect to the housing).

A projection apparatus according to a second aspect, based on the firstaspect, further includes a power supply. The control unit turns off thepower supply when a rotation state of the holder is the housed state.With the second aspect, it is possible to appropriately control thepower supply corresponding to the rotation state of the projection lens.

In order to attain the above-described object, a projection apparatusaccording to a third aspect of the present invention includes a housing;a power supply; a control unit; a projection lens attached to thehousing, the projection lens having a holder, a detection unit thatdetects a rotation state of the holder, an emission optical system, anda locking mechanism unit that brings rotation of the holder into alocked state or an unlocked state; and a moving mechanism that moves theprojection lens with respect to the housing. The control unit causes themoving mechanism to move to a housed position when the power supply isturned off. Depending on the rotation state of the projection lens, theprojection range may be blocked by the housing at the time of projection(so-called vignetting may occur). In this case, the vignetting can besuppressed by moving the projection lens with respect to the housing bythe movement mechanism; however, this movement causes a positionaldeviation between the projection lens and the housing. Thus, in thethird aspect, when an operation of turning off the power supply isreceived, the moving mechanism is moved to the housed position and thenthe power supply is turned off. Accordingly, the power supply can beturned off in a state without a positional deviation, and it is possibleto prevent collision or breakage caused by the positional deviation. Asdescribed above, with the third aspect, it is possible to appropriatelycontrol the power supply in accordance with the rotation relationshipbetween the projection lens and the housing (the movement state of theprojection lens). Note that it is preferable that the projection lens ishoused in a state in which the moving mechanism has moved to theabove-described housed position (for example, in a housed state in whichthe emission optical system faces the housing like the first aspect).

In a projection apparatus according to a fourth aspect, based on thethird aspect, the projection lens includes a cover member, and a sidesurface of the cover member and a side surface of the housing arepresent in a same plane when the moving mechanism is at the housedposition. With the fourth aspect, since the side surface of the covermember and the side surface of the housing exist in the same plane whenthe moving mechanism is at the housed position, it is possible toinstall and house the projection apparatus in a stable state, and it ispossible to prevent one surface from protruding and colliding, beingdamaged, or the like. Note that the “same plane” is not limited to thecompletely same plane, and includes a case where two planes are deviatedfrom each other to such an extent that stable installation and housingis not hindered.

In a projection apparatus according to a fifth aspect, based on thethird or fourth aspect the control unit causes the moving mechanism tomove to the housed position when the power supply is turned off and whena rotation state of the holder is the housed state in which the emissionoptical system faces the housing; and the control unit maintains amovement position of the moving mechanism when the power supply isturned off and when a rotation state of the holder is other than thehoused state. With the fifth aspect, since the moving mechanism is notmoved (the movement position is maintained) when the power is turned offin a state in which the rotation state is other than the housed state,it is possible to appropriately control the movement state of theprojection lens, and it is possible to quickly use the projectionapparatus again under the same conditions (installation location,rotation state, and the like).

In a projection apparatus according to a sixth aspect, based on any oneof the third to fifth aspects, when an operation of turning off thepower supply has been input, before the power supply is turned off, thecontrol unit makes a notification of information relating to a change inthe rotation state of the projection lens. For example, it is possibleto notify a user of necessity to change the rotation state and thecontent of the change, and the user can recognize the informationnotified.

In a projection apparatus according to a seventh aspect, based on thesixth aspect, the information is information relating to a change of therotation state to a housed position at which the emission optical systemfaces the housing. With the seventh aspect, for example, it is possibleto make a notification of information about a procedure for changing therotation state to the housed state.

In order to attain the above-described object, a projection apparatusaccording to an eighth aspect of the present invention includes ahousing; a light source; a control unit; a projection lens attached tothe housing, the projection lens having a holder and a detection unitthat detects a rotation state of the holder; and a moving mechanism thatmoves the projection lens with respect to the housing. The control unitstores information on a movement position of the projection lens by themoving mechanism for each rotation state of the holder. The control unitcauses the projection lens to move to the stored movement position afterthe rotation state is detected by the detection unit. With the eighthaspect, since the projection lens is moved to the movement positioncorresponding to the rotation state, it is possible to performappropriate control in consideration of the relationship between bothand to quickly move the projection lens to the movement positioncorresponding to the rotation state.

A projection apparatus according to a ninth aspect, based on the eighthaspect, further includes a reception unit that receives an operation ofthe moving mechanism by a user. The control unit updates information ona stored movement position based on the operation when the movementposition has been changed by the operation. With the ninth aspect, sincethe information on the movement position is updated, the user can movethe projection lens to a desired movement position and does not need torepeat the same operation each time the user uses the projectionapparatus.

In a projection apparatus according to a tenth aspect, based on theeighth or ninth aspect, the holder has a first holder through whichlight of a first optical axis emitted from the light source passes, asecond holder through which light of a second optical axis obtained bybending the first optical axis passes, and a third holder through whichlight of a third optical axis obtained by bending the second opticalaxis passes. The second holder rotates around the first optical axis,and the third holder rotates around the second optical axis. Thedetection unit detects a rotation state of the second holder and arotation state of the third holder. The control unit stores informationon the movement position corresponding to a rotation state of the secondholder and a rotation state of the third holder. The control unit causesthe projection lens to move to the stored movement position based on arotation state of the second holder and a rotation state of the thirdholder.

As described above, according to the projection apparatus of the presentinvention, it is possible to appropriately perform the control relatingto the rotation state and/or the movement state of the projection lens.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of a projection apparatus;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the projection apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a left side view of the projection apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a right side view of the projection apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a plan view (top view) of the projection apparatus;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view (lower surface view) of the projectionapparatus;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when aprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustrating an example of use when theprojection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used;

FIG. 31 is a plan view illustrating a general configuration of theinside of the projection apparatus main body;

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating a lens configuration of a projectionlens;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view illustrating an external structure of alens barrel of the projection lens;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view illustrating the external structure of thelens barrel of the projection lens;

FIG. 35 is a sectional view illustrating a general configuration of theinside of the lens barrel of the projection lens;

FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a generalconfiguration of a first locking mechanism;

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a generalconfiguration of a second locking mechanism;

FIG. 38 is a developed plan view illustrating a general configuration ofa first optical scale;

FIG. 39 is a developed plan view illustrating a general configuration ofa second optical scale;

FIG. 40 is a front view illustrating a general configuration of a lensshift mechanism when the projection apparatus main body is horizontallyplaced;

FIG. 41 is a front view illustrating a support structure of a firstslide plate with respect to a base plate;

FIG. 42 is a front view illustrating a support structure of a secondslide plate with respect to the first slide plate;

FIG. 43 is a front view illustrating a general configuration of a firstslide plate driving mechanism;

FIG. 44 is a front view illustrating a general configuration of a secondslide plate driving mechanism;

FIG. 45 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an electricalinternal configuration of the projection apparatus;

FIG. 46 is a flowchart for locked states of holders, and control ofturning on a power supply and turning on a light source relating to thelocked states;

FIG. 47 is a flowchart (following FIG. 46) for the locked states of theholders, and the control of turning on the power supply and turning onthe light source relating to the locked states;

FIG. 48 is a flowchart for locking of the holders;

FIG. 49 is a flowchart when unlocking of the holders is disabled;

FIG. 50 is a display example for making a notification of the reason whyunlocking of the holders is disabled and an unlocking method;

FIG. 51 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of control relating tolocking of the holders and projection of light;

FIG. 52 illustrates an example of a notification of the reason why thelocked state is disabled and/or a prompt to set the holder to a specificstate;

FIG. 53 is a flowchart relating to control of turning off the powersupply and the light source in association with a rotation state and amovement state;

FIG. 54 illustrates a display example of a message when a change in therotation state is unnecessary;

FIG. 55 is a display example of a message for a prompt to make rotationto a reference state;

FIG. 56 is a view illustrating an example of an OSD image when the powersupply is turned off;

FIG. 57 is a flowchart relating to control of updating information onmovement and a movement position of the projection lens;

FIG. 58 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of rotation correctionof an image by a CPU and a display control unit;

FIG. 59 is a table illustrating a projection image and an OSD image whenthe projection lens is in a lens posture No. 2;

FIG. 60 is a table illustrating a projection image and an OSD image whenthe projection lens is in a lens posture No. 5;

FIG. 61 is a table illustrating a projection image and an OSD image whenthe projection lens is in a lens posture No. 8;

FIG. 62 is a table illustrating a projection image and an OSD image whenthe projection lens is in a lens posture No. 11;

FIG. 63 is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of rotationcorrection of a projection image;

FIG. 64 is a table summarizing rotation correction of a projection imagesubjected to the rotation correction;

FIG. 65 is a diagram illustrating an example of an OSD image relating toan operation manual displayed by the projection apparatus;

FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating another example of an OSD imagerelating to the operation manual displayed by the projection apparatus;

FIG. 67 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus andshift states of a projection image when the projection apparatus mainbody is horizontally placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2 to6;

FIG. 68 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus andshift states of a projection image when the projection apparatus mainbody is horizontally placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 7 to12;

FIG. 69 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus andshift states of a projection image when the projection apparatus mainbody is vertically placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2 to 6;

FIG. 70 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus andshift states of a projection image when the projection apparatus mainbody is vertically placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 7 to 12;

FIG. 71 is a view relating to “lens postures” that define positions ofthe projection lens with respect to the projection apparatus main body;

FIG. 72 is a view relating to “lens postures” that define whether or notthe projection apparatus main body exists in front in a projectiondirection;

FIG. 73 is a diagram defining “shift correction directions” of aprojection image;

FIG. 74 is a plan view of a housing of the projection apparatus mainbody used for explaining shift amounts of a projection image;

FIG. 75A is a table summarizing rotation correction and shift correctionof an image when the projection apparatus main body is horizontallyplaced and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2 to 6;

FIG. 75B is another table summarizing rotation correction and shiftcorrection of an image when the projection apparatus main body ishorizontally placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2 to 6;

FIG. 76A is a table summarizing rotation correction and shift correctionof an image when the projection apparatus main body is horizontallyplaced and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 7 to 12;

FIG. 76B is another table summarizing rotation correction and shiftcorrection of an image when the projection apparatus main body ishorizontally placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 7 to 12;

FIG. 77A is a table summarizing rotation correction and shift correctionof an image when the projection apparatus main body is vertically placedand the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2 to 6;

FIG. 77B is another table summarizing rotation correction and shiftcorrection of an image when the projection apparatus main body isvertically placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2 to 6;

FIG. 78A is a table summarizing rotation correction and shift correctionof an image when the projection apparatus main body is vertically placedand the lens posture numbers are Nos. 7 to 12;

FIG. 78B is another table summarizing rotation correction and shiftcorrection of an image when the projection apparatus main body isvertically placed and the lens posture numbers are Nos. 7 to 12; and

FIG. 79 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of shift correction ofan image by the CPU and a shift control unit.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments for implementing a projection apparatusaccording to the present invention will be described in detail withreference to the accompanying drawings.

External Configuration of Projection Apparatus

FIG. 1 is a front view of a projection apparatus 1. FIG. 2 is a rearview of the projection apparatus 1. FIG. 3 is a left side view of theprojection apparatus 1. FIG. 4 is a right side view of the projectionapparatus 1. FIG. 5 is a plan view (top view) of the projectionapparatus 1. FIG. 6 is a bottom view (lower surface view) of theprojection apparatus 1.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6, a projection apparatus 1 of the presentembodiment includes a projection apparatus main body 2 and a projectionlens 3. The projection lens 3 is configured to be rotatable around afirst rotation axis θ1 and a second rotation axis θ2, and is configuredto be foldable. FIG. 5 illustrates a state (housed state) in which theprojection lens 3 is folded and an emission lens portion of theprojection lens 3 faces a housing 14. The projection apparatus 1 has aflat rectangular-parallelepiped shape as a whole in the housed state ofthe projection lens 3.

In FIG. 5, the projection apparatus main body 2 has the housing 14 and arecessed portion 15. The housing 14 has a shape obtained by cutting outone corner portion (right front corner portion) of a rectangularparallelepiped into a rectangular box shape, and has an L shape as awhole. The cut out portion of the projection apparatus main body 2constitutes, as the recessed portion 15, a housing portion for theprojection lens 3. The projection lens 3 is disposed in the recessedportion 15, and when being folded, the entire projection lens 3 ishoused in the recessed portion 15. In a folded state (housed state), theprojection lens 3 is disposed such that the distal end of the projectionlens 3 faces an inner wall surface 15A on the front side of the recessedportion 15. The inner wall surface 15A on the front side of the recessedportion 15 includes a recess 15 a. The emission lens portion protrudingfrom the distal end of the projection lens 3 is housed in the recess 15a.

The projection lens 3 rotates around two axes (first rotation axis θ1and second rotation axis θ2) orthogonal to each other to switch theprojection direction. Thus, projection can be performed in variousdirections without moving the projection apparatus main body 2.

The projection lens 3 has a lens cover 18 at a distal end portionthereof. When the projection lens 3 is folded, the lens cover 18complements the cut out corner portion of the projection apparatus mainbody 2. That is, a lens cover front portion 18A, a lens cover right sideportion 18D, a lens cover top portion 18E, and a lens cover bottomportion 18F are positioned substantially in the same planes as a housingfront portion 14A, a housing right side portion 14D, a housing topportion 14E, and a housing bottom portion 14F of the projectionapparatus main body 2, respectively, and form a flatrectangular-parallelepiped shape together with the projection apparatusmain body 2.

The housing front portion 14A of the projection apparatus main body 2includes a main body operating unit 6. The main body operating unit 6includes various operation switches, such as a power supply switch 6A, aMENU key 6B, a cross key 6C, an ENTER key 6D, and a BACK key 6E.

The housing right side portion 14D of the projection apparatus main body2 includes an air supply portion 7 constituted of multiple punchedholes. A housing left side portion 14C of the projection apparatus mainbody 2 includes an exhaust portion 8 constituted of multiple punchedholes. In the projection apparatus main body 2, air for cooling internaldevices (light source and so forth) is taken in from the air supplyportion 7, passes through the inside, and is exhausted from the exhaustportion 8.

The housing right side portion 14D of the projection apparatus main body2 includes a power supply connector 9 and a video input terminal 10. Theprojection apparatus 1 is supplied with electric power from the outsidevia a power supply cable (not illustrated) connected to the power supplyconnector 9. The projection apparatus 1 is supplied with video signalsfrom an external device (personal computer or the like) via a cable (notillustrated) connected to the video input terminal 10.

The projection lens 3 includes a locking mechanism 60 for independentlylocking the rotation around the first rotation axis θ1 and around thesecond rotation axis. Details of the locking mechanism 60 will bedescribed later. The rotation of the projection lens 3 around the firstrotation axis θ1 and around the second rotation axis is normally lockedby the locking mechanism. The projection lens 3 includes an unlockingoperating unit 11 that unlocks the rotation around the first rotationaxis θ1 and around the second rotation axis.

The unlocking operating unit 11 includes a first unlocking switch 11Aand a second unlocking switch 11B. The first unlocking switch 11Aunlocks the rotation around the first rotation axis θ1. The firstunlocking switch 11A is constituted of a push button having a circularouter shape, and a key top thereof includes a light emitting diode(LED). When the first unlocking switch 11A is pressed, the rotation ofthe projection lens 3 around the first rotation axis θ1 is unlocked fora certain period (for example, 10 seconds). Hence, during this period,the projection lens 3 is free to rotate around the first rotation axisθ1. The second unlocking switch 11B unlocks the rotation of theprojection lens 3 around the second rotation axis θ2. The secondunlocking switch 11B is constituted of a quadrangular push button, and akey top thereof includes an LED. When the second unlocking switch 11B ispressed, the rotation of the projection lens 3 around the secondrotation axis θ2 is unlocked for a certain period (for example, 10seconds). Hence, during this period, the projection lens 3 is free torotate around the second rotation axis θ2.

The projection apparatus main body 2 of the projection apparatus 1 ofthe present embodiment can be horizontally placed and vertically placed.As illustrated in FIG. 6, the housing bottom portion 14F of theprojection apparatus main body 2 includes three horizontal placement legportions 12 serving as ground portions when the projection apparatusmain body 2 is horizontally placed. A housing rear portion 14B of theprojection apparatus main body 2 includes four vertical placement legportions 13 serving as ground portions when the projection apparatusmain body 2 is vertically placed.

FIGS. 7 to 18 are perspective views illustrating examples of use whenthe projection apparatus main body is horizontally placed and used. Notethat the rotation direction of the first rotation axis θ1 is based on acase viewed from the housing front portion 14A side as illustrated inFIG. 1, and the rotation direction of the second rotation axis θ2 isbased on a case viewed from the housing right side portion 14D asillustrated in FIG. 4. In addition, being “horizontally placed” refersto a case where the largest surface of the housing 14 (in the presentembodiment, the housing bottom portion 14F or the housing top portion14E) intersects with the gravity direction.

FIG. 7 illustrates a housed state when the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is horizontally placed. As illustrated in the drawing, in thehoused state, the projection lens 3 is housed in the recessed portion 15of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 8 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projection apparatusmain body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projection rearward.This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3 counterclockwiseby 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 from the housed state. In thismode, an image is projected rearward from the upper side of theprojection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 9 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionrearward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 from the housedstate. In this mode, an image is projected rearward from the lower sideof the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 10 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionrightward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwiseby 90° around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In thismode, an image is projected rightward from the upper side of theprojection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 11 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionrightward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and counterclockwiseby 90° around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In thismode, an image is projected rightward from the lower side of theprojection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 12 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionleftward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 andcounterclockwise by 90° around the second rotation axis θ2 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected leftward from theupper side of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 13 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionleftward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwise by 90°around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In this mode,an image is projected leftward from the lower side of the projectionapparatus main body 2.

FIG. 14 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionforward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwiseor counterclockwise by 180° around the second rotation axis θ2 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected forward from the upperside of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 15 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionforward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwise orcounterclockwise by 180° around the second rotation axis θ2 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected forward from the lowerside of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 16 illustrates a third mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and performs projectionforward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise or counterclockwise by 180° around the second rotation axis θ2from the housed state. In this mode, an image is projected forward fromthe housing front portion 14A of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 17 illustrates a mode of use in which the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is horizontally placed and performs projection upward. This modeis provided by rotating the projection lens 3 counterclockwise by 90°around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In this mode,an image is projected upward from the housing top portion 14E of theprojection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 18 illustrates a mode of use in which the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is horizontally placed and performs projection downward. Thismode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3 clockwise by 90°around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In this mode,an image is projected downward from the housing bottom portion 14F ofthe projection apparatus main body 2.

FIGS. 19 to 30 are perspective views illustrating examples of use whenthe projection apparatus main body is vertically placed and used. Notethat, being “vertically placed” refers to a case where the largestsurface of the housing 14 (in the present embodiment, the housing bottomportion 14F or the housing top portion 14E) is substantially parallel tothe gravity direction.

When being vertically placed, the projection apparatus main body 2 isplaced with the housing rear portion 14B of the projector main body 2facing below. Further, the projection apparatus main body 2 is placedwith the housing right side portion 14D facing forward.

FIG. 19 illustrates a housed state when the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is vertically placed. As illustrated in the drawing, in thehoused state, the projection lens 3 is housed in the recessed portion 15of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 20 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectiondownward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected downward from theright side of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 21 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectiondownward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 from the housedstate. In this mode, an image is projected downward from the left sideof the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 22 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionforward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwiseby 90° around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In thismode, an image is projected forward from the right side of theprojection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 23 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionforward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and counterclockwiseby 90° around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In thismode, an image is projected forward from the left side of the projectionapparatus main body 2.

FIG. 24 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionrearward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 andcounterclockwise by 90° around the second rotation axis θ2 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected rearward from theright side of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 25 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionrearward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwise by 90°around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In this mode,an image is projected rearward from the left side of the projectionapparatus main body 2.

FIG. 26 illustrates a first mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionupward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3counterclockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwiseor counterclockwise by 180° around the second rotation axis θ2 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected upward from the rightside of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 27 illustrates a second mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionupward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise by 90° around the first rotation axis θ1 and clockwise orcounterclockwise by 180° around the second rotation axis θ2 from thehoused state. In this mode, an image is projected upward from the leftside of the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 28 illustrates a third mode of use in which the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and performs projectionupward. This mode is provided by rotating the projection lens 3clockwise or counterclockwise by 180° around the second rotation axis θ2from the housed state. In this mode, an image is projected upward fromthe housing front portion 14A of the projection apparatus main body 2directed upward.

FIG. 29 illustrates a mode of use in which the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is vertically placed and performs projection rightward. This modeis provided by rotating the projection lens 3 counterclockwise by 90°around the second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In this mode,an image is projected rightward from the housing top portion 14E of theprojection apparatus main body 2 directed rightward.

FIG. 30 illustrates a mode of use in which the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is vertically placed and performs projection leftward. This modeis provided by rotating the projection lens 3 clockwise by 90° aroundthe second rotation axis θ2 from the housed state. In this mode, animage is projected leftward from the housing bottom portion 14F of theprojection apparatus main body 2 directed leftward.

Internal Structure of Projection Apparatus Main Body

FIG. 31 is a plan view illustrating a general configuration of theinside of the projection apparatus main body.

As illustrated in the drawing, the projection apparatus main body 2includes a light source unit 20, an illumination unit 21, an imagedisplay unit 22, a main body posture detection unit 23, and a lens shiftmechanism 80 therein.

The light source unit 20 includes a laser light source 20A, afluorescent body wheel 20B, a mirror 20C, and a color wheel 20D. Thelaser light source 20A emits a blue laser beam. The light source unit 20generates light of three colors of red, green, and blue (or light offour colors of red, green, blue, and yellow) from the blue laser beamemitted from the laser light source 20A using the fluorescent body wheel20B and the color wheel 20D, and time-divisionally emits the light.

The illumination unit 21 includes a rod integrator 21A, a lens 21B, alens 21C, a lens 21D, a mirror 21E, and a mirror 21F. The light emittedfrom the color wheel 20D of the light source unit 20 is incident on therod integrator 21A. The rod integrator 21A makes the light emitted fromthe light source unit 20 uniform. The light emitted from the rodintegrator 21A is relayed by the lens 21B, the lens 21C, and the lens21D, and enters the image display unit 22 via the mirror 21E and themirror 21F.

The image display unit 22 receives the light emitted from theillumination unit 21 and generates an image. The image display unit 22includes a total reflection prism 22A and a Digital Micromirror Device(DMD, registered trademark) 22B. The total reflection prism 22A guidesthe light incident from the illumination unit 21 to the DMD 22B. The DMD22B is a light modulation element that time-divisionally modulates lightof the respective color components incident via the total reflectionprism 22A. The DMD 22B has multiple micromirrors capable of switchingthe reflection direction, and modulates incident light by changing theangle of each micromirror in accordance with video signals. The lightmodulated by the DMD 22B passes through the total reflection prism 22Aand is guided to the projection lens 3.

The main body posture detection unit 23 detects the posture (horizontalplacement, vertical placement, or the like) of the projection apparatusmain body 2. The main body posture detection unit 23 is constituted of,for example, an acceleration sensor that measures the tilt angle of theprojection apparatus main body 2 with respect to the gravity direction.Alternatively, the main body posture detection unit 23 may be a sensorthat detects two positions of the horizontal placement and the verticalplacement of the projection apparatus main body 2.

The lens shift mechanism 80 shifts the optical axis of the projectionlens 3 by moving the projection lens 3 with respect to the projectionapparatus main body 2. The lens shift mechanism 80 is disposed inside ofthe inner wall surface 15A on the front side of the recessed portion 15of the projection apparatus main body 2. Details of the lens shiftmechanism 80 will be described later.

Configuration of Projection Lens Lens Configuration of Projection Lens

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating a lens configuration of the projectionlens.

The projection lens 3 enlarges an image formed by the DMD 22B andprojects the enlarged image on a projection target surface. Theprojection lens 3 is substantially constituted of a first optical systemG1, a second optical system G2, and a third optical system G3. Theprojection lens 3 includes a zoom function and a focus function. Notethat each optical system may include one lens or a plurality of lenses.

The first optical system G1 forms an image generated by the DMD 22B, asan intermediate image. The first optical system G1 is located between amain body section (housing) of the projection apparatus 1 and the secondoptical system G2 in an optical path. The first optical system G1 issubstantially constituted of a first optical system first lens groupG11, a first optical system second lens group G12, a first opticalsystem third lens group G13, a first optical system fourth lens groupG14, and a first mirror R1. The first optical system first lens groupG11, the first optical system second lens group G12, the first opticalsystem third lens group G13, and the first optical system fourth lensgroup G14 are disposed along a first optical axis Z1 perpendicular to adisplay surface of the DMD 22B. The first optical system first lensgroup G11 is a fixed lens group, and the first optical system secondlens group G12, the first optical system third lens group G13, and thefirst optical system fourth lens group G14 are lens groups that moveduring zooming. The first optical system second lens group G12 and thefirst optical system third lens group G13 move together during zooming.Each lens group is constituted of at least one lens.

The first mirror R1 is disposed on the first optical axis Z1 and bendsthe optical path at a right angle. The optical axis of the bent opticalpath is referred to as a second optical axis Z2.

The second optical system G2 enlarges the intermediate image formed bythe first optical system G1. The enlarged intermediate image isprojected on a projection target surface (screen, wall, ceiling, floor,or the like). The second optical system G2 is substantially constitutedof a second optical system first lens group G21, a second optical systemsecond lens group G22, and a second mirror R2. The second optical systemfirst lens group G21, the second optical system second lens group G22,and the second mirror R2 are disposed along the second optical axis Z2.The second mirror R2 bends the optical path of the second optical systemG2 at a right angle. The optical axis of the bent optical path isreferred to as a third optical axis Z3. The second optical system firstlens group G21 and the second optical system second lens group G22 arefixed lens groups.

The third optical system G3 projects the image enlarged by the secondoptical system G2 on the projection target surface. The third opticalsystem G3 is substantially constituted of a third optical system firstlens group G31, a third optical system second lens group G32, and athird optical system third lens group G33. The third optical systemfirst lens group G31, the third optical system second lens group G32,and the third optical system third lens group G33 are disposed along thethird optical axis Z3. The third optical system first lens group G31 andthe third optical system third lens group G33 are fixed lens groups, andthe third optical system second lens group G32 is a lens group thatmoves during focusing. Each lens group is constituted of at least onelens.

In the projection lens 3, a part including the first mirror R1 and thesecond optical system G2 rotates while the first optical axis Z1 servesas the first rotation axis θ1. In addition, in the projection lens 3, apart including the second optical system second lens group G22 and thesecond mirror R2 of the second optical system G2, the third opticalsystem first lens group G31, the third optical system second lens groupG32, and the third optical system third lens group G33 rotates while thesecond optical axis Z2 serves as the second rotation axis θ2.

Lens Barrel of Projection Lens

FIGS. 33 and 34 are perspective views illustrating an external structureof a lens barrel of the projection lens. FIG. 35 is a sectional viewillustrating a general configuration of the inside of the lens barrel ofthe projection lens.

In FIG. 33, a lens barrel 30 of the projection lens 3 has a first holder31, a second holder 40, and a third holder 50. The first holder 31houses the first optical system first lens group G11, the first opticalsystem second lens group G12, the first optical system third lens groupG13, and the first optical system fourth lens group G14. The secondholder 40 houses the first mirror R1 and the second optical system firstlens group G21. The third holder 50 houses the second optical systemsecond lens group G22, the second mirror R2, the third optical systemfirst lens group G31, the third optical system second lens group G32,and the third optical system third lens group G33. That is, the first tothird holders 31, 40, and 50 hold various optical members.

In FIG. 35, the first holder 31 includes a fixed frame 32, a cam frame33, a first lens holding frame 34, a second lens holding frame 35, athird lens holding frame 36, and a zoom gear frame 37.

In FIG. 34, the fixed frame 32 has a flange portion 32A on an outerperiphery thereof. The flange portion 32A functions as a connectingportion (mount portion) to the projection apparatus main body 2. Theprojection lens 3 is mounted on the projection apparatus main body 2 viathe flange portion 32A. At this time, the flange portion 32A of theprojection lens 3 is connected to the lens shift mechanism 80 includedin the projection apparatus main body 2. The fixed frame 32 includes astraight groove 32B along the first optical axis Z1. The straight groove32B is provided at each of three positions in the circumferentialdirection at equal intervals.

The cam frame 33 is radially fitted to an inner peripheral portion ofthe fixed frame 32 and is rotatably held by the fixed frame 32. The camframe 33 includes a first cam groove 33A and a second cam groove 33B.The first cam groove 33A and the second cam groove 33B each are providedat each of three positions in the circumferential direction at equalintervals.

The first lens holding frame 34 holds the first optical system firstlens group G11. The first lens holding frame 34 is connected to a rearend portion of the fixed frame 32 and is integrally fixed to the fixedframe 32. Thus, the first optical system first lens group G11 is fixedand held at a predetermined position.

The second lens holding frame 35 holds the first optical system secondlens group G12 and the first optical system third lens group G13. Thesecond lens holding frame 35 is radially fitted to an inner peripheralportion of the cam frame 33, and is held so as to be movable forward andrearward along the first optical axis Z1 in the inner peripheral portionof the cam frame 33. The second lens holding frame 35 includes a firstcam pin 35A on an outer peripheral portion thereof. The first cam pin35A is provided at each of three positions in the circumferentialdirection at equal intervals. The first cam pin 35A is fitted to thecorresponding first cam groove 33A provided in the cam frame 33 and thecorresponding straight groove 32B provided in the fixed frame 32. Thus,when the cam frame 33 is rotated, the second lens holding frame 35 movesforward or rearward along the first optical axis Z1. Consequently, thefirst optical system second lens group G12 and the first optical systemthird lens group G13 move forward or rearward together along the firstoptical axis Z1. Thus, the angle of view (zoom magnification) of aprojection image is adjusted.

The third lens holding frame 36 holds the first optical system fourthlens group G14. The third lens holding frame 36 is radially fitted to aninner peripheral portion of the cam frame 33, and is held so as to bemovable forward and rearward along the first optical axis Z1 in theinner peripheral portion of the cam frame 33. The third lens holdingframe 36 includes a second cam pin 35B on an outer peripheral portionthereof. The second cam pin 35B is provided at each of three positionsin the circumferential direction at equal intervals. The second cam pin35B is fitted to the corresponding second cam groove 33B provided in thecam frame 33 and the corresponding straight groove 32B provided in thefixed frame 32. Thus, when the cam frame 33 is rotated, the third lensholding frame 36 moves forward or rearward along the first optical axisZ1. Consequently, the first optical system fourth lens group G14 movesforward or rearward along the first optical axis Z1.

The zoom gear frame 37 is radially fitted to an outer peripheral portionof the fixed frame 32 and is rotatably held by the fixed frame 32. Thezoom gear frame 37 has a gear portion 37A on the outer peripherythereof. The zoom gear frame 37 is connected to the cam frame 33. Thus,when the zoom gear frame 37 is rotated, the cam frame 33 rotates.

The gear portion 37A of the zoom gear frame 37 is engaged with a zoomdriving gear 38A connected to a zoom motor 38. As illustrated in FIG.33, the zoom motor 38 is attached to the fixed frame 32 via a bracket38B.

In FIG. 34, when the zoom motor 38 is driven, the zoom gear frame 37rotates. The cam frame 33 rotates in conjunction with the rotation ofthe zoom gear frame 37. As the cam frame 33 rotates, the second lensholding frame 35 and the third lens holding frame 36 move along thefirst optical axis Z1. Consequently, the first optical system secondlens group G12, the first optical system third lens group G13, and thefirst optical system fourth lens group G14 move along the first opticalaxis Z1, and the angle of view (zoom magnification) of a projectionimage is adjusted.

The second holder 40 includes a first rotating frame 41, a first mirrorholding frame 42, and a lens holding frame 43. The second holder 40 isheld so as to be rotatable around the first optical axis Z1 (=the firstrotation axis θ1) with respect to the first holder 31. Although thefirst holder 31 is fixed to the housing 14 in the present embodiment,the first holder 31 and the second holder 40 may be connected to eachother and the first holder 31 may also be rotated with respect to thehousing 14.

In FIG. 35, the first rotating frame 41 is radially fitted to the outerperiphery of the fixed frame 32 of the first holder 31 and is rotatablyheld by the fixed frame 32. A first support roller 32C as a rotatingportion is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the fixed frame32. The first support roller 32C is provided at each of three positionsin the circumferential direction at equal intervals. The first rotatingframe 41 includes a first guide groove 41A to which the first supportrollers 32C are fitted. The first guide groove 41A is disposed along thecircumferential direction. The first rotating frame 41 is rotatably heldwith respect to the fixed frame 32 by the first support roller 32Cmoving along the first guide groove 41A.

The first mirror holding frame 42 holds the first mirror R1. The firstmirror holding frame 42 has a structure bent at a right angle, isconnected to the first rotating frame 41, and is integrally fixed to thefirst rotating frame 41.

The lens holding frame 43 holds the second optical system first lensgroup G21. The lens holding frame 43 is connected to the first mirrorholding frame 42 and integrally fixed to the first mirror holding frame42. The lens holding frame 43 fixed to the first mirror holding frame 42is disposed perpendicularly to the first rotating frame 41.

The third holder 50 includes a second rotating frame 51, a second mirrorholding frame 52, a helicoid frame 53, a final lens holding frame 54, afocus lens holding frame 55, and a focus gear frame 56. The third holder50 is held so as to be rotatable around the second optical axis Z2 (=thesecond rotation axis θ2) with respect to the second holder 40.

The second rotating frame 51 holds the second optical system second lensgroup G22. The second rotating frame 51 is radially fitted to an innerperipheral portion of the lens holding frame 43 of the second holder 40,and is rotatably held by the lens holding frame 43. A second supportroller 51A as a rotating portion is provided on an outer peripheralportion of the second rotating frame 51. The second support roller 51Ais provided at each of three positions in the circumferential directionat equal intervals. The lens holding frame 43 includes a second guidegroove 43A to which the second support roller 51A is fitted. The secondguide groove 43A is disposed in the circumferential direction. Thesecond rotating frame 51 is rotatably held with respect to the lensholding frame 43 by the second support roller 51A moving along thesecond guide groove 43A.

The second mirror holding frame 52 holds the second mirror R2 and thethird optical system first lens group G31. The first mirror holdingframe 42 has a structure bent at a right angle, is connected to thesecond rotating frame 51, and is integrally fixed to the second rotatingframe 51.

The helicoid frame 53 is connected to the second mirror holding frame 52and integrally fixed to the second mirror holding frame 52. The helicoidframe 53 fixed to the second mirror holding frame 52 is disposedperpendicularly to the second rotating frame 51. The helicoid frame 53has a female helicoid portion 53A at an inner peripheral portion of thedistal end thereof.

The final lens holding frame 54 holds the third optical system thirdlens group G33 that is the final lens. The final lens holding frame 54is connected to the distal end of the helicoid frame 53 and isintegrally fixed to the helicoid frame 53.

The focus lens holding frame 55 holds the third optical system secondlens group G32. The focus lens holding frame 55 has a male helicoidportion 55A on an outer peripheral portion of the distal end thereof.The male helicoid portion 55A of the focus lens holding frame 55 isscrew-connected to the female helicoid portion 53A of the helicoid frame53, and the focus lens holding frame 55 is disposed on an innerperipheral portion of the helicoid frame 53. When the focus lens holdingframe 55 rotates, the focus lens holding frame 55 moves forward orrearward while being rotating along the third optical axis Z3 by theaction of the male helicoid portion 55A and the female helicoid portion53A. Consequently, the third optical system second lens group G32 movesforward or rearward along the third optical axis Z3.

The focus gear frame 56 is radially fitted to the outer periphery of thehelicoid frame 53 and is rotatably held by the helicoid frame 53. Thefocus gear frame 56 has a gear portion 56A on the outer peripherythereof. The focus gear frame 56 is connected to the focus lens holdingframe 55 via a connecting pin 55B provided on an outer peripheralportion of the focus lens holding frame 55. Thus, when the focus gearframe 56 is rotated, the focus lens holding frame 55 rotates.

The gear portion 56A of the focus gear frame 56 is engaged with a focusdriving gear 58A connected to a focus motor 58. As illustrated in FIG.34, the focus motor 58 is attached to the second mirror holding frame 52via a bracket 58B.

In FIG. 34, when the focus motor 58 is driven, the focus gear frame 56rotates. The focus lens holding frame 55 rotates in conjunction with therotation of the focus gear frame 56. Thus, the focus lens holding frame55 moves while rotating along the third optical axis Z3. Consequently,the third optical system second lens group G32 moves along the thirdoptical axis Z3 to adjust focus.

In the lens barrel 30 configured as described above, the second holder40 rotates around the first optical axis Z1 (=the first rotation axisθ1) with respect to the first holder 31. The third holder 50 rotatesaround the second optical axis Z2 (=the second rotation axis θ2) withrespect to the second holder 40.

Locking Mechanism of Projection Lens

As described above, the projection lens 3 includes the locking mechanism60 for independently locking the rotation around the first rotation axisθ1 and around the second rotation axis. The locking mechanism 60includes a first locking mechanism 60A that locks rotation of the secondholder 40 with respect to the first holder 31 to lock rotation of theprojection lens 3 around the first rotation axis θ1. The lockingmechanism 60 also includes a second locking mechanism 60B that locksrotation of the third holder 50 with respect to the second holder 40 tolock rotation of the projection lens 3 around the second rotation axisθ2.

First Locking Mechanism

The first locking mechanism 60A locks the rotation of the second holder40 at three positions. The three positions are a position in the housedstate (see FIGS. 7 and 19), a position rotated counterclockwise by 90°from the housed state (see FIGS. 8 and 20), and a position rotatedclockwise by 90° from the housed state (see FIGS. 10 and 21).

FIG. 36 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a generalconfiguration of the first locking mechanism.

As illustrated in the drawing, a claw portion guide groove 32D isprovided in the circumferential direction on the outer periphery of thefixed frame 32 of the first holder 31. The claw portion guide groove 32Dincludes a first locking groove portion 32E at each of three positionsin the circumferential direction. The first locking groove portions 32Eare each constituted of a groove extending from the claw portion guidegroove 32D along the first optical axis Z1 and are arranged at equalintervals (intervals of 90°).

A first locking claw 61A is constituted of an integrally formed partmade of sheet metal, and has a first locking claw main body 62A having arectangular flat plate shape, an arm portion 63A extending from thefirst locking claw main body 62A in the longitudinal direction, ahook-shaped claw portion 64A provided at the distal end of the armportion 63A, and a connecting portion 65A with respect to a plunger 68 aof a first solenoid 68A. The first locking claw main body 62A includestwo long holes 66A for attachment to the lens barrel 30.

As illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34, the first locking claw 61A isslidably attached to the first mirror holding frame 42 of the secondholder 40 via two screws 67A. The first locking claw 61A attached to thefirst mirror holding frame 42 is slidably supported along the firstoptical axis Z1. The first locking claw 61A attached to the first mirrorholding frame 42 has the claw portion 64A fitted to the claw portionguide groove 32D. The first locking claw 61A is slid at the position ofthe claw portion guide groove 32D, so that the claw portion 64A isfitted to the claw portion guide groove 32D to lock the second holder40.

The first locking claw 61A is driven by the first solenoid 68A to slide.The first solenoid 68A is attached to the first mirror holding frame 42of the second holder 40 via a bracket. The first solenoid 68A has theplunger 68 a urged in the protruding direction. When the first solenoid68A is energized (turned on), the first solenoid 68A retracts theplunger 68 a against the urging force.

The first solenoid 68A is connected to the connecting portion 65A of thefirst locking claw 61A at a distal end portion of the plunger 68 a. Thefirst locking claw 61A connected to the first solenoid 68A slides byturning on and off the first solenoid 68A. That is, by turning on(energizing) the first solenoid 68A, the plunger 68 a retracts againstthe urging force. Consequently, the first locking claw 61A slides. Thesliding direction in this case is a direction in which the claw portion64A retracts from the first locking groove portion 32E. When the firstsolenoid 68A is turned on, the claw portion 64A retracts from the firstlocking groove portion 32E and moves to the claw portion guide groove32D. Consequently, the second holder 40 is rotatable.

In contrast, when the first solenoid 68A is turned off, the plunger 68 aprotrudes by the urging force. Consequently, the first locking claw 61Aslides. The sliding direction in this case is a direction toward thefirst locking groove portion 32E. Thus, when the first solenoid 68A isturned off at a position at which the position of the claw portion 64Aand the position of the first locking groove portion 32E coincide witheach other, the claw portion 64A is fitted to the first locking grooveportion 32E, and the rotation of the second holder 40 is locked. Thatis, the rotation around the first rotation axis θ1 is locked.

When the first solenoid 68A is turned off at a position other than theposition of the first locking groove portion 32E, the claw portion 64Ais pressed against an inner wall surface of the claw portion guidegroove 32D by the urging force of the plunger 68 a. In this case, whenthe second holder 40 is rotated to a position at which the position ofthe claw portion 64A and the position of the first locking grooveportion 32E coincide with each other, the claw portion 64A is fitted tothe first locking groove portion 32E by the urging force of the plunger68 a, and the rotation of the second holder 40 is locked. That is, therotation around the first rotation axis θ1 is locked.

As described above, the first locking mechanism 60A moves the clawportion 64A of the first locking claw 61A forward and backward byturning on and off the first solenoid 68A to lock and unlock therotation of the second holder 40. That is, the rotation around the firstrotation axis θ1 is locked and unlocked.

The first solenoid 68A is turned on and off by the first unlockingswitch 11A. The first solenoid 68A is turned on for a predeterminedperiod when the first unlocking switch 11A is pushed once. Thus, whenthe first unlocking switch 11A is pushed once, unlocking is attained fora certain period.

Second Locking Mechanism

The second locking mechanism 60B locks the rotation of the third holder50 at four positions. The four positions are positions at intervals of90° with reference to the position in the housed state.

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a generalconfiguration of a second locking mechanism.

As illustrated in the drawing, the second rotating frame 51 of the thirdholder 50 includes a claw portion guide groove 51B on the outercircumference thereof in the circumferential direction. The claw portionguide groove 51B includes a second locking groove portion 51C at each offour positions in the circumferential direction. The second lockinggroove portions 51C are each constituted of a groove extending from theclaw portion guide groove 51B along the second optical axis Z2, and aredisposed at equal intervals (intervals of 90°).

A second locking claw 61B is constituted of an integrally formed partmade of sheet metal, and has a second locking claw main body 62B havinga rectangular flat plate shape, a hook-shaped claw portion 64B providedat the second locking claw main body 62B, and a connecting portion 65Bwith respect to a plunger 68 b of a second solenoid 68B. The secondlocking claw main body 62B includes two long holes 66B for attachment tothe lens barrel 30. As illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34, the secondlocking claw 61B is slidably attached to the lens holding frame 43 ofthe second holder 40 via two screws 67B. Further, the claw portion 64Bof the second locking claw 61B attached to the lens holding frame 43 isfitted to the claw portion guide groove 51B. The detailed locking andunlocking methods of the rotating shaft are substantially the same asthose of the first locking mechanism.

Rotation Position Detection Unit

In FIG. 35, the projection lens 3 includes a first rotation positiondetection unit 70A that detects the rotation position of the secondholder 40 with respect to the first holder 31, and a second rotationposition detection unit 70B that detects the rotation position of thethird holder 50 with respect to the second holder 40.

First Rotation Position Detection Unit

The first rotation position detection unit 70A detects seven rotationpositions (including rotation ranges) of 0°, 0° to 45°, 45° to 90°, 90°,90° to 135°, 135° to 180°, and 180° as rotation positions of the secondholder 40. It is also possible to detect the rotation position in afurther fine range. For example, 45° and 135° may be detectedindependently.

The first rotation position detection unit 70A is constituted of aso-called optical absolute encoder, and includes a first optical scale71A to which a different code is assigned in accordance with therotation position, and a first reading sensor 72A that reads the firstoptical scale 71A.

The first optical scale 71A is disposed in the circumferential directionon an outer peripheral portion of the fixed frame 32 of the first holder31. FIG. 38 is a developed plan view illustrating a generalconfiguration of the first optical scale. To the first optical scale71A, a code corresponding to the rotation position is assigned using acombination of a reflective portion (white portion in FIG. 38) and anon-reflective portion (black portion in FIG. 38). In this example, a3-bit code is assigned according to the rotation position by threetracks.

The first reading sensor 72A is provided on the first rotating frame 41of the second holder 40 and is disposed to face the first optical scale71A. The first reading sensor 72A has a structure in which a lightsource and an optical sensor are arranged in a line, and reads the firstoptical scale 71A by irradiating the first optical scale 71A with lightfrom the light source and receiving the reflection light by the opticalsensor. More specifically, on/off of light is detected, and a signalcorresponding to the on/off is output. The output signal is a signalcorresponding to the rotation position of the second holder 40.

The second holder 40 rotates within a range of 90° in thecounterclockwise direction and 90° in the clockwise direction withreference to the housed state. The second holder 40 is locked at eachposition of a position in the housed state (see FIGS. 7 and 19), aposition rotated counterclockwise by 90° from the housed state (seeFIGS. 8 and 20), and a position rotated clockwise by 90° from the housedstate (see FIGS. 9 and 21). The first rotation position detection unit70A detects the rotation position of the second holder 40 by setting aposition at which the second holder 40 is rotated counterclockwise by90° from the housed state (see FIGS. 8 and 20) as 0° and a rotationdirection in which the second holder 40 is rotated clockwise from theposition of 0° as a positive rotation direction. Thus, the rotationposition of the second holder 40 is detected as 90° at the position ofthe housed state (see FIGS. 7 and 19), and the rotation position of thesecond holder 40 is detected as 180° at the position rotated clockwiseby 90° from the housed state (see FIGS. 9 and 21).

Second Rotation Position Detection Unit

The second rotation position detection unit 70B detects twelve rotationpositions (including rotation ranges) of 0°, 0° to 45°, 45° to 90°, 90°,90° to 135°, 135° to 180°, 180°, 180° to 225°, 225° to 270°, 270°, 270°to 315°, and 315° to 360° as rotation positions of the third holder 50.It is also possible to detect the rotation position in a further finerange. For example, 45°, 135°, 225°, and 315° may be detectedindependently.

The second rotation position detection unit 70B is constituted of anoptical absolute encoder like the first rotation position detection unit70A, and includes a second optical scale 71B to which a different codeis assigned in accordance with the rotation position, and a secondreading sensor 72B that reads the second optical scale 71B. The detailsof the detection method are substantially similar to those of the firstrotation position detection unit 70A.

The first rotation position detection unit 70A and the second rotationposition detection unit 70B are not limited to optical absoluteencoders, and for example, potentiometers or the like that output arotation angle, a movement amount, or the like as a voltage signal maybe used.

Lens Shift Mechanism

The projection apparatus main body 2 includes the lens shift mechanism80. The lens shift mechanism 80 moves the projection lens 3 with respectto the projection apparatus main body 2 to shift the optical axis of theprojection lens 3. More specifically, the projection lens 3 is moved ina plane orthogonal to the first optical axis Z1 to shift the opticalaxis of the projection lens 3.

Configuration of Lens Shift Mechanism

FIG. 40 is a front view illustrating a general configuration of the lensshift mechanism when the projection apparatus main body is horizontallyplaced. In the drawing, a direction indicated by an arrow X is aleft-right direction (synonymous with a lateral direction and ahorizontal direction) when the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed, and a direction indicated by an arrow Y is anup-down direction (synonymous with a vertical direction and aperpendicular direction) when the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed.

The lens shift mechanism 80 includes a base plate 81, a first slideplate 82, a second slide plate 83 (see also FIG. 35), a first slideplate driving mechanism 84, and a second slide plate driving mechanism85.

The base plate 81 is fixed to the projection apparatus main body 2. Thefirst slide plate 82 is attached to the base plate 81, and the secondslide plate 83 is attached to the first slide plate 82. The second slideplate 83 is integrally provided with a mount portion 83M. The mountportion 83M is an attachment portion for the projection lens 3. Theprojection lens 3 is attached to the lens shift mechanism 80 byfastening the flange portion 32A provided at the first holder 31 of thelens barrel 30 to the mount portion 83M with screws, and is connected tothe projection apparatus main body 2. The projection lens 3 connected tothe projection apparatus main body 2 is disposed such that the firstoptical axis Z1 thereof is orthogonal to the housing front portion 14Aof the projection apparatus main body 2.

FIG. 41 is a front view illustrating a support structure of the firstslide plate with respect to the base plate.

As illustrated in the drawing, the base plate 81 includes two parallelfirst slide rails 81C. The two first slide rails 81C are disposed inparallel to the base plate 81 and tilted at 45° with respect to thehorizontal direction. The first slide plate 82 is slidably held alongthe first slide rails 81C (hereinafter, a moving direction of the firstslide plate 82, that is, the longitudinal direction of the first sliderails 81C is referred to as a first direction α).

FIG. 42 is a front view illustrating a support structure of the secondslide plate with respect to the first slide plate.

As illustrated in the figure, the first slide plate 82 includes twoparallel second slide rails 82C. The two second slide rails 82C aredisposed in parallel to the first slide plate 82 and orthogonally to thefirst direction α. The second slide plate 83 is slidably held along thesecond slide rails 82C (hereinafter, a moving direction of the secondslide plate 83, that is, the longitudinal direction of the second sliderails 82C is referred to as a second direction (3).

As illustrated in FIGS. 40, 41 and 42, the base plate 81, the firstslide plate 82, and the second slide plate 83 respectively include abase opening 81A, a first opening 82A, and a second opening 83A. Each ofthe base opening 81A, the first opening 82A, and the second opening 83Ais provided to open an optical path of image light to be projected. Thepositions, sizes, and shapes of the base opening 81A, the first opening82A, and the second opening 83A are determined so as not to block theoptical path of the image light even when the lens barrel 30 moves withthe sliding of the first slide plate 82 and the second slide plate 83.

The first slide plate 82 includes a first groove portion 82B connectedto the first slide plate driving mechanism 84, and the second slideplate 83 includes a second groove portion 83B connected to the secondslide plate driving mechanism 85.

FIG. 43 is a front view illustrating a general configuration of thefirst slide plate driving mechanism.

As illustrated in the drawing, the first slide plate driving mechanism84 includes a first shift motor 86, a first rotating shaft 87, and afirst moving piece 88. Each part of the first slide plate drivingmechanism 84 is attached to the base plate 81.

The first shift motor 86 is constituted of, for example, a steppingmotor. The first shift motor 86 has a first driving shaft 86A. The firstdriving shaft 86A is disposed orthogonally to the first direction α.

The first rotating shaft 87 is disposed orthogonally to the firstdriving shaft 86A of the first shift motor 86 and in parallel to thefirst direction α. The first rotating shaft 87 includes a first screwportion 87A constituted of a male screw.

The first rotating shaft 87 and the first driving shaft 86A areconnected by a first worm gear 89 in a manner capable of transmittingrotation. The first worm gear 89 is constituted of a first worm 89Aprovided on the first driving shaft 86A and a first worm wheel 89Bprovided on the first rotating shaft 87. When the first shift motor 86rotates, the rotation of the first driving shaft 86A is transmitted tothe first rotating shaft 87 via the first worm gear 89, and the firstrotating shaft 87 rotates.

The first moving piece 88 includes a first moving piece main body 88Aand a first connecting portion 88B. The first moving piece main body 88Ahas a cylindrical shape and has a female screw portion in an innerperipheral portion. The first moving piece 88 is attached to the firstrotating shaft 87 by screwing the female screw portion to the firstscrew portion 87A of the first rotating shaft 87. The first moving piecemain body 88A of the first moving piece 88 attached to the firstrotating shaft 87 slides over the first slide plate 82, and the rotationis regulated. The first connecting portion 88B is provided to protrudefrom the first moving piece main body 88A, as a protrusion capable ofbeing fitted to the first groove portion 82B provided at the first slideplate 82. The first moving piece 88 is connected to the first slideplate 82 by fitting the first connecting portion 88B to the first grooveportion 82B.

In the first slide plate driving mechanism 84 configured as describedabove, when the first shift motor 86 is driven to rotate the firstrotating shaft 87, the first moving piece 88 moves along the firstrotating shaft 87. When the first moving piece 88 moves along the firstrotating shaft 87, the first slide plate 82 slides in the firstdirection α. When the first shift motor 86 is rotated forward, the firstslide plate 82 slides in the + direction of the first direction α (upperright direction in FIG. 41), and when the first shift motor 86 isrotated backward, the first slide plate 82 slides in the − direction ofthe first direction α (lower left direction in FIG. 41).

FIG. 44 is a front view illustrating a general configuration of thesecond slide plate driving mechanism.

As illustrated in the drawing, the second slide plate driving mechanism85 includes a second shift motor 90, a second rotating shaft 91, asecond moving piece 92, the base plate 81, a second driving shaft 90A, asecond screw portion 91A, a second worm gear 93, a second worm 93A, asecond worm wheel 93B, a second moving piece main body 92A, and a secondconnecting portion 92B. The mechanism of the second slide plate drivingmechanism 85 is substantially the same as the mechanism of the firstslide plate driving mechanism 84. The details of each member of thesecond slide plate driving mechanism 85 are substantially the same asthose of each corresponding member of the first slide plate drivingmechanism 84.

Shift Operation of Lens Shift Mechanism

The lens shift mechanism 80 configured as described above controlsdriving of the first shift motor 86 and the second shift motor 90 toshift the projection lens 3 in a plane orthogonal to the first opticalaxis Z1.

For example, when the projection lens 3 is shifted in the upperdirection, the first shift motor 86 and the second shift motor 90 arerotated forward by the same amount. Accordingly, the first slide plate82 slides in the + direction of the first direction α (upper rightdirection in FIG. 40), and the second slide plate 83 slides in the +direction of the second direction β (upper left direction in FIG. 40),so that the projection lens 3 is shifted in the upper direction.

For example, when the projection lens 3 is shifted in the lowerdirection, the first shift motor 86 and the second shift motor 90 arerotated backward by the same amount. Accordingly, the first slide plate82 slides in the − direction of the first direction α (lower leftdirection in FIG. 40), and the second slide plate 83 slides in the −direction of the second direction β (lower right direction in FIG. 40),so that the projection lens 3 is shifted in the lower direction.

For example, when the projection lens 3 is shifted in the rightdirection, the first shift motor 86 is rotated forward and the secondshift motor 90 is rotated backward by the same amount. Accordingly, thefirst slide plate 82 slides in the + direction of the first direction α(upper right direction in FIG. 40), and the second slide plate 83 slidesin the − direction of the second direction β (lower right direction inFIG. 40), so that the projection lens 3 is shifted in the rightdirection.

For example, when the projection lens 3 is shifted in the leftdirection, the first shift motor 86 is rotated backward and the secondshift motor 90 is rotated forward by the same amount. Accordingly, thefirst slide plate 82 slides in the − direction of the first direction α(lower left direction in FIG. 40), and the second slide plate 83 slidesin the + direction of the second direction β (upper left direction inFIG. 40), so that the projection lens 3 is shifted in the leftdirection.

Electrical Internal Configuration of Projection Apparatus

FIG. 45 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an electricalinternal configuration of the projection apparatus.

As illustrated in FIG. 45, the projection lens 3 of the projectionapparatus 1 includes a focus driving unit 110, a zoom driving unit 120,the locking mechanism 60, the unlocking operating unit 11, a displayunit 150, the first rotation position detection unit 70A, and the secondrotation position detection unit 70B. The optical systems and theholders of the projection lens 3 are omitted.

The projection apparatus main body 2 of the projection apparatus 1 isprovided with a central processing unit (CPU) 210, the main body posturedetection unit 23, a storage unit 240, a projection image output unit250, an on screen display (OSD) image output unit 252, a display controlunit 254, the lens shift mechanism 80, a shift control unit 262, a lightsource control unit 270, a power supply control unit 280, and so forthin addition to the main body operating unit 6, the power supplyconnector 9, the light source unit 20, and the DMD 22B described above.

The focus driving unit 110 includes the focus motor 58 and a drivingcircuit thereof, and drives the focus motor 58 based on a focus commandfrom the CPU 210 (see FIG. 33). As illustrated in FIG. 35, the focusdriving unit 110 moves the third optical system second lens group G32along the third optical axis Z3. Accordingly, the focus of a projectionimage projected from the projection lens 3 on a projection targetsurface (screen or the like) is adjusted.

The zoom driving unit 120 includes the zoom motor 38 and a drivingcircuit thereof, and drives the zoom motor 38 based on a zoom commandfrom the CPU 210 (see FIG. 33). In FIG. 35, the zoom driving unit 120moves the first optical system second lens group G12, the first opticalsystem third lens group G13, and the first optical system fourth lensgroup G14 along the first optical axis Z1. Accordingly, the angle ofview (zoom magnification) of a projection image projected from theprojection lens 3 on the projection target surface is adjusted.

As described above, the locking mechanism 60 has the first lockingmechanism 60A that locks the rotation of the second holder 40 to lockthe rotation of the projection lens 3 around the first rotation axis θ1.The locking mechanism 60 also has the second locking mechanism 60B thatlocks the rotation of the third holder 50 to lock the rotation of theprojection lens around the second rotation axis θ2. The first lockingmechanism 60A drives the first solenoid 68A based on an unlockingcommand (first unlocking signal) from the CPU 210. The claw portion 64Aof the first locking claw 61A is retracted from the first locking grooveportion 32E by the first solenoid 68A to unlock the second holder 40.The second locking mechanism 60B drives the second solenoid 68B based onan unlocking command (second unlocking signal) from the CPU 210. Theclaw portion 64B of the second locking claw 61B is retracted from thesecond locking groove portion 51C by the second solenoid 68B to unlockthe third holder 50.

The unlocking operating unit 11 has the first unlocking switch 11A forunlocking the second holder 40 locked by the first locking mechanism 60Aand the second unlocking switch 11B for unlocking the third holder 50locked by the second locking mechanism 60B.

In FIG. 1, when the first unlocking switch 11A is turned on (one push),a first unlocking command signal is output from the first unlockingswitch 11A to the CPU 210. When the CPU 210 receives the first unlockingcommand signal from the first unlocking switch 11A, the CPU 210 outputsa first unlocking signal for unlocking the first locking mechanism 60Ato the first locking mechanism 60A for a certain period (for example, 10seconds). When the first locking mechanism 60A receives the firstunlocking signal, the first locking mechanism 60A drives the firstsolenoid 68A to unlock the second holder 40.

Similarly, when the second unlocking switch 11B is turned on, a secondunlocking command signal is output from the second unlocking switch 11Bto the CPU 210. When the CPU 210 receives the second unlocking commandsignal from the second unlocking switch 11B, the CPU 210 outputs asecond unlocking signal for unlocking the second locking mechanism 60Bto the second locking mechanism 60B for a certain period (for example,10 seconds). When the second locking mechanism 60B receives the secondunlocking signal, the second locking mechanism 60B drives the secondsolenoid 68B to unlock the third holder 50.

The display unit 150 includes light emitting diodes (LEDs) provided onkey tops of the unlocking operating unit 11 (first unlocking switch 11Aand second unlocking switch 11B), and can emit white light and redlight. The CPU 210 outputs a display control signal for turning on whitelight, blinking white light, turning on red light, and blinking redlight to the display unit 150, and makes a notification of the lockedstates and the unlocked states of the second holder 40 and the thirdholder 50 of the projection lens 3, a warning, and so forth. Details ofdisplay control of the display unit 150 will be described later.

The first rotation position detection unit 70A detects the rotationposition of the second holder 40. As described above, the first rotationposition detection unit 70A detects the seven rotation positions(including rotation ranges) of 0°, 0° to 45°, 45° to 90°, 90°, 90° to135°, 135° to 180°, and 180° as rotation positions of the second holder40. The second holder 40 can rotate within a range of 0° to 180°, and asdescribed above, the second holder 40 is in the locked state (therotation state of the second holder 40 is a specific state) at the threepositions of 0°, 90°, and 180°. The rotation position of the secondholder 40 illustrated in FIG. 1 is 90°, and the rotation angle in whichthe second holder 40 rotates clockwise around the first rotation axis θ1(FIG. 5) illustrated in FIG. 1 represents a positive angle.

The second rotation position detection unit 70B detects the rotationposition of the third holder 50. As described above, the second rotationposition detection unit 70B detects the twelve rotation positions(including rotation ranges) of 0°, 0° to 45°, 45° to 90°, 90°, 90° to135°, 135° to 180°, 180°, 180° to 225°, 225° to 270°, 270°, 270° to315°, and 315° to 360° as rotation positions of the third holder 50. Thethird holder 50 can be rotated endlessly and is brought into the lockedstate at the four positions of 0° (=360°), 90°, 180°, and 270° (therotation state of the third holder 50 is a specific state) as describedabove. The rotation position of the third holder 50 illustrated in FIG.1 is 0°, and the rotation angle in which the third holder 50 rotatesclockwise around the second rotation axis θ2 as viewed from the rightside in FIG. 1 represents a positive angle.

When the three specific states in which the second holder 40 is in thelocked state and the four specific states in which the third holder 50is in the locked state are combined, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 18,the projection lens 3 can take twelve locked states (specific states)with respect to the projection apparatus main body 2. In particular, thelocked state (specific state) in which the rotation position of thesecond holder 40 is 90° and the rotation position of the third holder 50is 0° is a housed state in which the projection lens 3 is housed in therecessed portion 15 of the projection apparatus main body 2 asillustrated in FIG. 7.

FIGS. 7 to 18 are perspective views illustrating the projectionapparatus 1 in the twelve locked states of the projection lens 3,particularly illustrating the case where the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is horizontally placed, and FIGS. 19 to 30 illustrate the casewhere the projection apparatus main body 2 is vertically placed.

The projection lens 3 can take any posture with respect to theprojection apparatus 1 depending on the rotation positions of the secondholder 40 and the third holder 50. In contrast, the “specific posture”of the projection lens 3 includes twelve postures corresponding to thetwelve locked states.

Referring back to FIG. 45, a first rotation position signal indicatingthe rotation position of the second holder 40 and a second rotationposition signal indicating the rotation position of the third holder 50detected by the first rotation position detection unit 70A and thesecond rotation position detection unit 70B, respectively, are output tothe CPU 210.

The main body operating unit 6 provided on the projection apparatus mainbody 2 includes the power supply switch 6A, the MENU key 6B, the crosskey 6C, the ENTER key 6D, the BACK key 6E, and so forth.

The MENU key 6B is an operation key for giving a command to display amenu on a projection image area that is projected on a screen. The crosskey 6C is an operation key for inputting instructions in four directionsof up, down, left, and right, and functions as a button (cursor movementoperation means) for selecting an item from a menu window andinstructing selection of various setting items from each menu. The crosskey 6C functions as a multi-function key for inputting variousinstructions according to the content of the selected menu.

The main body posture detection unit 23 is a sensor that detects theposture (horizontal placement, vertical placement, or the like) of theprojection apparatus main body 2, and can be constituted of, forexample, an acceleration sensor that measures the tilt angle of theprojection apparatus main body 2 with respect to the gravity direction.The main body posture detection unit 23 outputs an angle signalindicating the tilt angle of the projection apparatus main body 2obtained by the measurement to the CPU 210. Alternatively, the main bodyposture detection unit 23 may be a sensor that detects two positions ofthe horizontal placement and the vertical placement of the projectionapparatus main body 2.

In FIG. 45, the storage unit 240 includes a read only memory (ROM), arandom access memory (RAM), a flash ROM, and so forth. The CPU 210generally controls each unit of the projection apparatus 1 using the RAMas a work area based on a control program stored in the ROM of thestorage unit 240 and tables and parameters stored in the ROM or theflash ROM.

In FIG. 31, light of three primary colors of red, green, and blue (orred, green, blue, and yellow) is time-divisionally incident on the DMD22B constituting the image display unit 22 via a color wheel 24 of thelight source unit 20. The DMD 22B performs optical modulation with videosignals corresponding to each color time-divisionally switched andoutput from the display control unit 254, thereby emitting an image. Byswitching the image of each color at high speed, the image is recognizedas a color image by human eyes due to an afterimage phenomenon. The DMD22B has been exemplified as the electro-optical element; however, theDMD 22B is not limited to the electro-optical element, and an LED panel,an organic light emitting panel, or a liquid crystal panel may be used.In this case, a dichroic prism may be used instead of the totalreflection prism 22A.

The video signals are input to the projection image output unit 250 froman external device such as a personal computer through the video inputterminal 10 (see FIG. 4) such as a High-Definition Multimedia Interface(HDMI, registered trademark) terminal. The projection image output unit250 outputs the video signals input from the video input terminal 10 asa projection image (first image) to the display control unit 254 underthe control of the CPU 210.

The OSD image output unit 252 has an internal memory that stores textinformation, graphic information, icon images, and so forth displayed asan OSD image. In accordance with an instruction from the CPU 210,necessary information is read out from the internal memory and output tothe display control unit 254 as an OSD image (second image).

The display control unit 254 receives the projection image (first image)from the projection image output unit 250 and receives the OSD image(second image) from the OSD image output unit 252. The display controlunit 254 individually outputs the projection image and the OSD image tothe DMD 22B based on a display control command from the CPU 210, oroutputs a composite image obtained by combining the projection image andthe OSD image to the DMD 22B. Moreover, the display control unit 254appropriately rotates the projection image and the OSD image and outputsthe projection image and the OSD image to the DMD 22B. Details ofrotation control on the projection image and the OSD image will bedescribed later.

The shift control unit 262 receives, from the CPU 210, the firstrotation position signal indicating the rotation position of the secondholder 40, the second rotation position signal indicating the rotationposition of the third holder 50, and the angle signal indicating thetilt angle of the projection apparatus main body 2. Based on these inputsignals, the direction in which the projection image is moved (in thisexample, any one of the four directions of up, down, left, and right) isdetermined. Thereafter, a movement command is output to the lens shiftmechanism 80 (see FIG. 40) to move the projection image in thedetermined direction.

Here, the direction in which the projection image is moved is determinedto be, for example, a direction in which interference (“vignetting” ofthe projection image) between the projection image and the projectionapparatus main body 2 itself or a table or the like on which theprojection apparatus main body 2 is disposed is reduced. In addition,the movement direction of the projection lens 3 and the movementdirection of the projection image do not correspond to each other on aone-to-one basis, and change in accordance with the rotation positionsof the second holder 40 and the third holder 50. Thus, the direction inwhich the projection lens 3 is moved needs to be determined inconsideration of the rotation positions of the second holder 40 and thethird holder 50 and whether the projection apparatus main body 2 isplaced horizontally or vertically. Details of control on the lens shiftmechanism 80 will be described later.

In this example, the light source unit 20 has the laser light source 20Athat emits a laser beam. However, the light source unit 20 may use alight emitting diode that emits white light or three light emittingdiodes that respectively emit monochromatic light of red, green, andblue. When the three light emitting diodes are used, the color wheel 24can be omitted.

The light source control unit 270 receives, from the CPU 210, the firstrotation position signal indicating the rotation position of the secondholder 40, the second rotation position signal indicating the rotationposition of the third holder 50, the angle signal indicating the tiltangle of the projection apparatus main body 2, and mode informationindicating a projection mode (first mode or second mode) selected by themain body operating unit 6. The light source control unit 270 determineslight emission or light non-emission of the laser light source 20A ofthe light source unit 20 based on these input signals, and controlslight emission or light non-emission of the laser light source 20A.Details of the control of the light source control unit 270 will bedescribed later.

Power (commercial power) is supplied from the power supply connector 9to the power supply control unit 280. When the power supply switch 6A isturned on, the power supply control unit 280 generates various voltagesto be supplied from the power supplied from the power supply connector 9to the CPU 210, the projection lens 3, the various motors in the lensshift mechanism 80, the solenoids of the locking mechanism 60 (see FIG.36), the laser light source 20A of the light source unit 20, and soforth, and supplies power to each unit of the projection apparatus mainbody 2.

Moreover, the power supply control unit 280 includes an automaticpower-off function of stopping the supply of power to each unit of theprojection apparatus main body 2 (turning off the power supply) when thepower supply switch 6A is turned off, but automatically turning off thepower supply under certain conditions regardless of the operation of thepower supply switch 6A. Details of the control of the power supplycontrol unit 280 will be described later.

Configuration Relating to Rotation of Projection Lens

An outline of a configuration relating to the rotation of the projectionlens 3 will be described. As described above with reference to FIGS. 32to 35, the projection lens 3 includes the first holder 31, the secondholder 40, and the third holder 50. The first holder 31 is connected tothe projection apparatus main body 2 (housing), allows light of thefirst optical axis Z1 (first optical axis) to pass therethrough, andholds the first optical system G1 (optical system). The second holder 40allows light of the second optical axis Z2 (second optical axis)obtained by bending the light of the first optical axis Z1 to passtherethrough, and holds the second optical system G2 (optical system).The third holder 50 allows light of the third optical axis Z3 (thirdoptical axis) obtained by bending the light of the second optical axisZ2 to pass therethrough, and holds the third optical system G3. Thesecond holder 40 rotates with respect to the first holder 31, and thethird holder 50 rotates with respect to the second holder 40.

The projection lens 3 has the first rotation position detection unit 70A(first detection unit) that detects the rotation state of the secondholder 40 and the second rotation position detection unit 70B (seconddetection unit) that detects the rotation state of the third holder 50,and the first rotation position detection unit 70A and the secondrotation position detection unit 70B constitute a detection unit. Theprojection lens 3 has the first locking mechanism 60A for bringing therotation of the second holder 40 into the locked state or the unlockedstate, and the second locking mechanism 60B for bringing the rotation ofthe third holder 50 into the locked state or the unlocked state. Thefirst locking mechanism 60A and the second locking mechanism 60Bconstitute the locking mechanism 60 (locking mechanism unit). Details ofthe configurations relating to the rotations are as described above withreference to FIGS. 32 to 35.

Locking of Holders and Control on Power Supply and Light Source Relatingto Locking

Locking and unlocking of the rotations of the holders and the control onthe power supply and the light source relating thereto will bedescribed. FIGS. 46 and 47 are flowcharts illustrating a controlprocedure relating to locking and unlocking, turning on of the powersupply, and turning on of the light source. Referring to FIGS. 46 and47, a case is described where processing is started from a state inwhich the power supply and the light source are off in a state where theprojection lens 3 (projection lens) is housed. The “housed state” is astate (first position) in which the projection lens 3 is housed in therecess 15 a provided at the inner wall surface 15A of the recessedportion 15 of the projection apparatus main body 2 (housing), and thethird optical system third lens group G33, which is the final lens groupof the projection lens 3, is housed to face the recess 15 a (housing)(see FIGS. 1 to 7). In this housed state, the lens cover front portion18A (side surface), the lens cover right side portion 18D (sidesurface), the lens cover top portion 18E (side surface), and the lenscover bottom portion 18F (side surface) of the lens cover 18 (covermember) are in substantially the same planes as those of the housingfront portion 14A (side surface), the housing right side portion 14D(side surface), the housing top portion 14E (side surface), and thehousing bottom portion 14F (side surface) of the projection apparatusmain body 2 (housing 14), respectively. These portions constitute a flatrectangular-parallelepiped shape (rectangular parallelepiped) togetherwith the projection apparatus main body 2 (housing 14) (see FIGS. 1 to7).

When the processing starts, the power supply control unit 280 determineswhether or not a power supply-on operation (an operation of turning onthe power supply switch 6A) has been performed (step S100). When thedetermination of step S100 is positive, the processing proceeds to stepS102, and the locking mechanism 60 (locking mechanism unit) determineswhether or not the second holder 40 and the third holder 50 are in thelocked states. The power supply control unit 280 turns on the powersupply (step S104) when the second holder 40 and the third holder 50 arein the locked states (YES in step S102), and does not turn on the powersupply (step S106) and returns to step S102 when the second holder 40and the third holder 50 are not in the locked states (NO in step S102).

When the power supply is turned on in step S104, the locking mechanism60 causes the LED (display unit 150; lamp) provided at each of the firstunlocking switch 11A (unlocking switch) and the second unlocking switch11B (unlocking switch) to blink with, for example, white light (stepS108). Thus, the user can easily recognize that the user needs tooperate the unlocking switch. In other words, the locking mechanism 60maintains the locked state of the rotation of each holder even when thepower supply of the projection apparatus 1 is turned on.

When the first unlocking switch 11A has been input (operated) (YES instep S110), the second locking mechanism 60B (second locking mechanismunit) disables unlocking of the third holder 50 (step S112), and thefirst locking mechanism 60A (first locking mechanism unit) unlocks thesecond holder 40 (un unlocked state is attained for a certain period;step S114). When being unlocked, the LED of the first unlocking switch11A stops blinking and continues lighting with white light. In contrast,the light of the second unlocking switch 11B of the third holder 50 inthe locked state is turned off. Accordingly, the user can easilyrecognize the unlocked state of the second holder 40. Since the secondholder 40 is in the unlocked state for the certain period, the user canperform the rotation operation of the second holder 40 during thisperiod. Note that the locking mechanism 60 does not simultaneouslyunlock both the second holder 40 and the third holder 50 (when one is inthe unlocked state, the other is in the locked state). Thus, it ispossible to prevent the two shafts from being simultaneously rotatableand from being unintentionally rotated.

The first rotation position detection unit 70A and the second rotationposition detection unit 70B detect the rotation states of the secondholder 40 and the third holder 50, respectively, and determine whetheror not the projection lens 3 is in the housed state (first position)(step S116). When the projection lens 3 has not been rotated and remainsin the housed state (YES in step S116), the light source control unit270 does not turn on the laser light source 20A (light source) (stepS124) and notifies the user of a warning (step S126). The warning instep S126 can be performed by, for example, the locking mechanism 60(first locking mechanism 60A and second locking mechanism 60B) causingthe LEDs of the first unlocking switch 11A and the second unlockingswitch 11B to blink with white light. In contrast, in the warning ofstep S126, the projection apparatus 1 may cause the display unit 150 togenerate a warning sound such as a beep sound by a device such as anelectronic circuit (not illustrated) instead of or in addition toblinking. This warning state continues while the determination of stepS116 is YES (while the projection lens 3 is in the housed state).

When the rotation state of the projection lens 3 is changed to a stateother than the housed state (the projection lens 3 is displaceable to afirst position that represents the housed state and a second positionother than the first position), the determination of step S116 isnegative, and when the second holder 40 is locked in a specific state(described later), the determination of step S118 is positive. In thisstate, the locking mechanism 60 enables unlocking of the third holder 50(step S120), and the light source control unit 270 turns on the laserlight source 20A (light source) (step S122). In contrast, when thesecond holder 40 is not locked (for example, when the rotation state isnot in the specific state in which locking is enabled; NO in step S118),the light source control unit 270 does not turn on the laser lightsource 20A (step S128), makes a notification of a warning by, forexample, blinking with red light of the LED or a beep sound (step S130),and the processing returns to step S118. Note that “enables unlocking”is a state in which unlocking is attained when the user inputs(operates) the unlocking switch (first unlocking switch 11A or secondunlocking switch 11B), and “disables unlocking” is a state in whichunlocking is not attained even when the unlocking switch is input.

In FIG. 47, when the first unlocking switch 11A has not been input(operated) in step S110 and the second unlocking switch 11B has beeninput (YES in step S132), the first locking mechanism 60A disablesunlocking of the second holder 40 (step S134), and the second lockingmechanism 60B unlocks the third holder 50 (unlocked state; step S136).When unlocking is attained, the blinking of the LED ends, and the secondunlocking switch 11B of the third holder 50 that has been unlocked, forexample, continues turning on white light. In contrast, the firstunlocking switch 11A of the second holder 40 in the locked state isturned off. Thus, the user can easily recognize the unlocked state ofthe third holder 50. Since the third holder 50 is in the unlocked statefor a certain period, the user can perform the rotation operation of thethird holder 50 during this period. When the second unlocking switch 11Bhas not been input (NO in step S132), the processing returns to stepS108.

After the third holder 50 is unlocked, the first rotation positiondetection unit 70A (detection unit) and the second rotation positiondetection unit 70B (detection unit) detect the rotation states of thesecond holder 40 and the third holder 50, respectively, and determinewhether or not the projection lens 3 is in the housed state (step S138).When the determination is positive (in the housed state), the lightsource control unit 270 does not turn on the laser light source 20A(light source) (step S146), and notifies the user of a warning by, forexample, blinking with white light of the LED or a beep sound (stepS148), and the processing returns to step S138. When the determinationof step S138 is negative (not in the housed state), the third holder 50is in a specific state (described later) and is locked (YES in stepS140). Then, the locking mechanism 60 enables unlocking of the secondholder 40 for a certain period (step S142), and the light source controlunit 270 turns on the laser light source 20A (step S144). In contrast,when the third holder 50 is not locked (for example, when the rotationstate is not in the specific state in which locking is possible; NO instep S140), the light source control unit 270 does not turn on the laserlight source 20A (step S150), makes a notification of a warning by, forexample, blinking with red light of the LED or a beep sound (step S152),and the processing returns to step S140.

Effect of Control Relating to Locking

As described above, since the power supply is not turned on when theprojection lens 3 is in a rotatable state, each of the holders is notable to be rotated unless the user instructs unlocking. Thus, it ispossible to prevent rotation of the projection lens 3, the rotationwhich is not intended by the user, and to appropriately restrict therotation state of the projection lens 3. That is, it is possible toappropriately perform control relating to the rotation of the projectionlens. In addition, as described in S218 of FIG. 51, the power supply ofthe projection apparatus is not able to be turned off when the holdersare in states other than the specific states. Thus, when the powersupply is turned on, the rotation of the projection lens 3 can bebrought into the locked state.

When the light source is turned on in the state in which the projectionlens 3 is in the housed state (first position), emitted light hits therecess 15 a of the projection apparatus main body 2, the temperatureincreases, and there is a concern that the increase in temperatureadversely affects the operation of the projection apparatus 1. However,by performing the control as described above, it is possible to preventsuch an adverse effect. Since it is considered that the user ispreparing to use the projection apparatus 1 such as changing therotation state or setting the projection direction when the firstunlocking switch 11A or the second unlocking switch 11B is input, thelight source is turned on in accordance with the input of theseunlocking switches.

Locking in Specific State

The second holder 40 and the third holder 50 are locked when therotation states become the specific states. In other words, the secondholder 40 and the third holder 50 are unlocked in states other than thespecific states. Such locking control will be described. FIG. 48 is aflowchart illustrating processing relating to locking of the holders.The main body posture detection unit 23 (third detection unit) detectsthe direction (posture; horizontal placement, vertical placement, orother posture) of the projection apparatus 1 with respect to the gravity(step S160). The first rotation position detection unit 70A and thesecond rotation position detection unit 70B detect the rotation statesof the second holder 40 and the third holder 50, respectively (stepS162). FIGS. 7 to 18 illustrate the projection apparatus 1 inhorizontally placed states, and FIGS. 19 to 30 illustrate the projectionapparatus 1 in vertically placed states. The locking mechanism 60 (firstlocking mechanism 60A; locking mechanism unit) determines whether or notthe second holder 40 is in the unlocked state (step S164). When thesecond holder 40 is in the unlocked state (YES in step S164), it isdetermined that unlocking of the third holder 50 is disabled (the thirdholder 50 is not unlocked even when the second unlocking switch 11B isinput) (step S166).

The locking mechanism 60 of the first locking mechanism 60A (lockingmechanism unit) determines whether or not the second holder 40 is in thespecific state based on the rotation state of the second holder 40detected in step S162 (step S168). The situation in which “the secondholder 40 is in the specific state” means that the rotation position ofthe second holder 40 is any one of 0°, 90°, and 180°. When the secondholder 40 is in the “specific state” (YES in step S168), the firstlocking mechanism 60A can lock the second holder 40 (step S170) asdescribed above with reference to FIG. 36. The second locking mechanism60B enables unlocking of the third holder 50 (a state in which the thirdholder 50 can be unlocked by inputting the second unlocking switch11B)(step S172). When the second holder 40 is not in the “specificstate” (NO in step S168), the first locking mechanism 60A cannot lockthe second holder 40. In addition to the situation in which “the secondholder 40 is in the specific state”, the second holder 40 may be lockedwhen the direction of the projection apparatus 1 with respect to thegravity is in a specific state (vertical placement or horizontalplacement).

In contrast, when the determination of step S164 is NO (when the secondholder 40 is not in the unlocked state, that is, in the locked state),the locking mechanism 60 (second locking mechanism 60B; lockingmechanism unit) determines whether or not the third holder 50 is in theunlocked state (step S174). When the determination is NO, since both thesecond holder 40 and the third holder 50 are in the locked states, anotification of a warning is made (step S184). As described above withrespect to step S102 in FIG. 46, the content of the warning prompts theuser to input the first unlocking switch 11A or the second unlockingswitch 11B.

When the third holder 50 is in the unlocked state (YES in step S174),the first locking mechanism 60A (locking mechanism unit) disablesunlocking of the second holder 40 (step S176). The locking mechanism 60of the second locking mechanism 60B (locking mechanism unit) determineswhether or not the third holder 50 is in the specific state based on therotation state of the third holder 50 detected in step S162 (step S178).The situation in which “the third holder 50 is in the specific state”means that the rotation position of the third holder 50 is any one of0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°. When the third holder 50 is in the “specificstate” (YES in step S178), the second locking mechanism 60B locks thethird holder 50 (step S180). The first locking mechanism 60A enablesunlocking of the second holder 40 (a state in which the second holder 40can be unlocked by inputting the first unlocking switch 11A)(step S182).When the third holder 50 is not in the specific state, the secondlocking mechanism 60B does not lock the third holder 50. In addition tothe situation in which “the third holder 50 is in the specific state”,the third holder 50 may be locked when the direction of the projectionapparatus 1 with respect to the gravity is in a specific state (verticalplacement or horizontal placement).

Effect of Locking in Specific State

As described above, since the second holder 40 and the third holder 50are locked when being in the specific states, and these holders are notsimultaneously unlocked (when one is in the unlocked state, the other isin the locked state), it is possible to appropriately restrict therotation state and prevent an adverse effect due to unexpected rotationor the like. That is, it is possible to appropriately perform controlrelating to the rotation of the projection lens. In addition to “thesecond holder 40 and the third holder 50 are in the specific states”,the second holder 40 and/or the third holder 50 may be locked when thedirection of the projection apparatus 1 with respect to the gravity isin a specific state (vertical placement or horizontal placement).

Restriction of Unlocking in Unsafe State

Restriction of unlocking in an unsafe state will be described. FIG. 49is a flowchart of processing of restricting unlocking. The lockingmechanism 60 determines whether or not the unlocking operation (input ofthe first unlocking switch 11A or the second unlocking switch 11B) hasbeen performed (step S190). The main body posture detection unit 23(third detection unit) detects the direction (installation state) of theprojection apparatus 1 with respect to the gravity (step S192), anddetermines whether the projection apparatus 1 is placed horizontally orvertically (step S194). FIGS. 7 to 18 illustrate the projectionapparatus 1 in horizontally placed states, and FIGS. 19 to 30 illustratethe projection apparatus 1 in vertically placed states.

In the case of vertical placement (NO in step S194), there is no statein which unlocking is disabled, and thus the processing ends. In thecase of horizontal placement (YES in step S194), the first rotationposition detection unit 70A and the second rotation position detectionunit 70B detect the rotation states of the second holder 40 and thethird holder 50, respectively (step S196). Then, the locking mechanism60 (first locking mechanism 60A, second locking mechanism 60B: lockingmechanism unit) determines whether or not the second holder 40 and thethird holder 50 are each in an unsafe state (step S198). The “unsafestate” in step S198 is, for example, a state in which the rotationposition of the second holder 40 is 0° and the rotation position of thethird holder 50 is 90° (see FIG. 10). When this determination ispositive, the locking mechanism 60 disables unlocking of the secondholder 40 (step S200). By disabling unlocking of the second holder 40 inthis state, it is possible to prevent the third optical system thirdlens group G33 (emission optical system), which is the final lens, fromcolliding with the installation surface or the like due to the rotationof the second holder 40. Note that the situation in which “disablingunlocking of the second holder 40” is a state in which unlocking is notattained even when the first unlocking switch 11A is input.

When unlocking of the second holder 40 is disabled in step S200, thelocking mechanism 60, the OSD image output unit 252, and the displaycontrol unit 254 make a notification of the reason why unlocking isdisabled or an unlocking method (step S202). Specifically, thenotification can be made using an OSD image, for example. FIG. 50 is aview illustrating an example of a notification using the OSD image. Part(a) of the drawing illustrates an example of displaying the reason whyunlocking is disabled using an OSD image 99A combined with a projectionimage 98 (“lens cannot be rotated around axis 1 at this position”). Part(b) of the drawing illustrates an example of displaying an unlockingmethod using an OSD image 99B (when the third holder 50 is rotated toanother angle from the state illustrated in FIG. 10, there is no risk ofcollision, and hence the second holder 40 can be unlocked).Alternatively, both the reason why the unlocking is disabled and theunlocking method may be displayed. With such a display, the user caneasily recognize the reason why the unlocking is disabled and theunlocking method. Note that the control can be similarly performed whenthe unlocking of the second holder 40 is disabled in another “unsafestate” other than the above-described state (the state in which therotation position of the second holder 40 is 0° and the rotationposition of the third holder 50 is 90°), and when the unlocking of thethird holder 50 is disabled in yet another “unsafe state”.

As described above, according to the projection apparatus 1 (projectionapparatus) and the projection lens 3 (projection lens), it is possibleto appropriately perform control relating to the rotation of theprojection lens (control of the rotation state of the projection lens,the power supply and the light source relating to the rotation state,and the locked states of the holders).

Shape and so Forth of Projection Apparatus in Housed State

In the projection apparatus 1 in the housed state, the lens cover frontportion 18A (side surface), the lens cover right side portion 18D (sidesurface), the lens cover top portion 18E (side surface), and the lenscover bottom portion 18F (side surface) of the lens cover 18 (covermember) are in substantially the same planes as those of the housingfront portion 14A (side surface), the housing right side portion 14D(side surface), the housing top portion 14E (side surface), and thehousing bottom portion 14F (side surface) of the projection apparatusmain body 2 (housing), respectively. These portions constitute a flatrectangular-parallelepiped shape (rectangular parallelepiped) togetherwith the projection apparatus main body 2 (see FIGS. 1 to 7).Accordingly, the projection apparatus 1 can be installed and housed in astable state, and it is possible to prevent one surface from protrudingand colliding, being damaged, or the like. Moreover, since therectangular-parallelepiped shape is provided, installation, housing, andso forth are easily performed. Note that the “rectangular-parallelepipedshape” is not limited to a geometrically perfect rectangularparallelepiped, and a gap may be provided between the projection lens 3and the projection apparatus main body 2 (housing), or the projectionlens 3 or the projection apparatus main body 2 may have protrusions suchas the horizontal placement leg portions 12, the vertical placement legportions 13, and the main body operating unit 6, and a recess such asthe power supply connector 9. Also, for example, a portion of theprojection lens 3 and/or the projection apparatus main body 2 may bechamfered. Also, being “in the same plane” is not limited to thegeometrically perfect same plane, and each surface of the lens cover 18and a corresponding surface of the projection apparatus main body 2described above may be shifted from each other within a range in whichinstallation or housing of the projection apparatus 1 is not hindered.

Locking in Specific State and Projection of Light Relating to RotationState

Locking when the rotation states of the holders are the specific statesand projection of light from the light source relating to the rotationstates will be described. FIG. 51 is a flowchart illustrating aprocedure of control relating to locking of the holders and projectionof light. The first rotation position detection unit 70A and the secondrotation position detection unit 70B detect the rotation states of thesecond holder 40 and the third holder 50, respectively (step S210), anddetermine whether or not the second holder 40 and the third holder 50are in the specific states (step S212). The situation in which “thesecond holder 40 is in the specific state” is a case where the rotationposition of the second holder 40 is any one of 0°, 90°, and 180°, andthe situation in which “the third holder 50 is in the specific state” isa case where the rotation position of the third holder 50 is any one of0° (360°), 90°, 180°, and 270°. When both the second holder 40 and thethird holder 50 are in the specific states (YES in step S212), the firstlocking mechanism 60A (locking mechanism unit) brings the second holder40 into the locked state, and the second locking mechanism 60B (lockingmechanism unit) brings the third holder 50 into the locked state (stepS214). When the second holder 40 and the third holder 50 are broughtinto the locked states, the light source control unit 270 projects lightfrom the laser light source 20A (light source) (step S216).

In contrast, when the second holder 40 and/or the third holder 50 is ina state other than the specific state (NO in step S212), the lockingmechanism 60 (first locking mechanism 60A, second locking mechanism 60B)cannot bring the holder (second holder 40, third holder 50) into thelocked state. This is because the claw portion (claw portion 64A, clawportion 64B) of the locking mechanism 60 is not fitted to the lockinggroove portion (first locking groove portion 32E, second locking grooveportion 51C) at an angle other than the rotation angle at which thespecific state is set. In this case, the unlocking operating unit 11(first unlocking switch 11A, second unlocking switch 11B) (control unit)disables the operation relating to the locked state (step S218).Alternatively, the power supply control unit 280 (control unit) disablesthe operation of turning off the power supply (step S218). The“operation relating to the locked state” is, for example, an operationof locking (an operation of setting the locked state) or an operation ofunlocking the locked holder.

The locking mechanism 60 (control unit), the OSD image output unit 252(control unit), and the display control unit 254 (control unit) notifiesthe user of the reason why the holder (second holder 40 and/or thirdholder 50) cannot be brought into the locked state and/or notifies theuser of a prompt to bring the holder into the specific state (stepS220). FIG. 52 illustrates a notification example of a prompt using anOSD image 99C combined with the projection image 98, in which themessage that “Locking is disabled in this rotation state” represents anotification example of the reason why the locked state is disabled, andthe message that “Please rotate rotation axis in units of 90°”represents a notification example of a prompt to bring the holder intothe specific state. Although the user is notified of the reason and theprompt in the example of FIG. 52, the user may be notified of one of thereason and the prompt. By following such a notification, the user canquickly bring the holder into the locked state. The notification in stepS220 may be performed through blinking of the LED or a beep sound. Inthe case where the operation of turning off the power supply isdisabled, the notification of the reason for the disabling and thenotification of the prompt to attain the specific state are similar tothe above-described notification in the case where the locked state isdisabled.

After the notification in step S220, the light source control unit 270(control unit) determines whether a first mode or a second mode is set(step S222). The “first mode” is a mode in which light from the laserlight source 20A (light source) is not projected in a state other thanthe specific state, and the “second mode” is a mode in which light fromthe laser light source 20A is projected in a state other than thespecific state. In the first mode, the projection lens 3 (projectionlens) does not project light from the laser light source 20A (lightsource) under the control of the light source control unit 270 (controlunit) (step S224), and in the second mode, the projection lens 3(projection lens) projects light from the laser light source 20A underthe control of the light source control unit 270 (control unit) (stepS226). The user can set the first mode or the second mode by operatingthe main body operating unit 6, and can thereby desirably set whether ornot to perform projection during the rotation operation. In particular,in the projection apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when eachholder of the projection lens is rotated, the projection image is alsorotated. In this case, it is also assumed that the user does not want tovisually recognize the projection image in the state during rotation.Thus, in the present embodiment, the user can switch between two modes.

As described above, when the second holder 40 and the third holder 50are not in the specific states, the power supply-off operation isdisabled (step S218). However, the power may be forcibly turned off dueto, for example, the power supply cable (not illustrated) connected tothe power supply connector 9 being pulled out. However, as illustratedin FIGS. 36 and 37, by rotating the second holder 40 or the third holder50 to the specific state, the claw portion (claw portion 64A, clawportion 64B) is automatically fitted to the locking groove portion(first locking groove portion 32E, second locking groove portion 51C).That is, even when the power supply of the projection apparatus 1 isoff, the locking mechanism 60 locks each holder in the specific state.

In the projection apparatus 1, since the control on the locked state andthe projection of the light relating to the locked state are performedas described above, it is possible to appropriately perform controlrelating to the rotation of the projection lens.

Rotation and Movement of Projection Lens, and Control on Power Supplyand Light Source Relating Thereto

FIG. 53 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of control of turningoff the power supply and the light source in relation to the rotationstate and the movement state. The first rotation position detection unit70A (first detection unit) and the second rotation position detectionunit 70B (second detection unit) detect the rotation states of thesecond holder 40 and the third holder 50, respectively (step S240). Thepower supply control unit 280 determines whether or not the operation ofturning off the power supply (for example, an operation to the powersupply switch 6A) has been input (step S242), and when the operation hasbeen input (YES in step S242), the first rotation position detectionunit 70A and the second rotation position detection unit 70B determinewhether or not the rotation states are a housed state (step S244).

When the rotation states are the housed state (YES in step S244), theshift control unit 262 (control unit) moves the lens shift mechanism 80(moving mechanism) to the housed position (step S246). Accordingly, theprojection lens 3 moves with respect to the projection apparatus mainbody 2 (housing), and the projection lens 3 is brought into the “housedstate”. The “housed position” of the lens shift mechanism 80 is in acase where the side surfaces of the lens cover 18 are present in thesame planes as those of the side surfaces of the housing 14. Further,the “reference state” of the projection lens 3 is in a case where therotation state of each holder is the “housed state” and the lens shiftmechanism 80 (moving mechanism) is at the “housed position”.

Note that a position at which the movement amount of the lens shiftmechanism 80 is 0 in a direction indicated by arrow X in FIGS. 40 to 44(the left-right direction when the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed) and a direction indicated by arrow Y (the up-downdirection when the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontallyplaced) can be set as the “housed position” of the lens shift mechanism80.

After movement to the housed position, the display control unit 254 andthe OSD image output unit 252 (control unit) notify the user of amessage that “Power supply and light source are going to be turned off”before turning off the power supply and the light source (step S248),and the power supply control unit 280 and the light source control unit270 (control unit) in FIG. 45 turn off the power supply and the lightsource (laser light source 20A), respectively (step S250). FIG. 54 is aview illustrating a notification example of a message when the powersupply and the light source are turned off. Since the rotation state isthe reference state, “Rotation is unnecessary. Power supply and lightsource are going to be turned off” is displayed using an OSD image 99Dcombined with the projection image 98. This message is an example ofinformation relating to a change of the rotation state of the projectionlens 3, and an example of information relating to a change of therotation state to the housed state (an example of a case where a changeis unnecessary).

The shift control unit 262 does not cause the lens shift mechanism 80 tomove when the power supply is turned off and when the rotation state ofthe holder (second holder 40, third holder 50) is other than thereference state. Hence, when the rotation state is not the housed state(NO in step S244), the shift control unit 262 does not cause the lensshift mechanism 80 to move, and the display control unit 254 and the OSDimage output unit 252 (control unit) notify the user of a messageprompting the change to the housed state (step S252). FIG. 55 is a viewillustrating a notification example of a message prompting the change,and a message that “Please rotate projection lens to housed state” isdisplayed using an OSD image 99E combined with the projection image 98.This message is another example of information relating to a change ofthe rotation state of the projection lens 3, and another example ofinformation relating to a change of the rotation state to the housedstate (an example of a case where a change is necessary).

FIG. 53 illustrates a case where the power supply is turned off afterthe lens shift mechanism 80 (moving mechanism) is moved to the housedposition (steps S246 to S250). However, the power supply may be turnedoff without moving the lens shift mechanism 80 to the housed positionafter the notification of changing the rotation state of the projectionlens 3 to the housed state is issued. The content of the flow includingthe “operation of turning off the power supply” (step S242) and latermay be changed between the case where an image is not projected and thecase where an image is projected. For example, the content of the flowmay be that “the power supply is turned off when the power supply switch6A is pressed once in the case where an image is not projected”, and“the power supply is turned off when the power supply switch 6A ispressed twice in the case where an image is projected”. In addition, itis preferable to automatically turn off the power supply when therotating portion (second holder 40, third holder 50) is in the lockedstate while the rotation state is the housed state.

FIG. 56 is a display example of an OSD image 99F in the case where thepower supply-off operation is performed in step S242, and illustratesthe operation in the case where the power supply is turned off while therotation state of the projection lens is maintained, and the operationin the case where the power supply is turned off while the projectionlens is in the housed state (reference state). Part (a) of the drawingis an example of display when there is no input of a projection image,and part (b) illustrates an example of display when the projection image98 is input. With such a display, the user can easily recognize theoperation method.

Control Relating to Movement of Projection Lens

FIG. 57 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of control relating tomovement (shift) of the projection lens 3. The first rotation positiondetection unit 70A (detection unit) and the second rotation positiondetection unit 70B (detection unit) detect the rotation states of thesecond holder 40 and the third holder 50, respectively (step S260). Inthis case, in each rotation state of the holders, the projection lens 3and the DMD 22B (see FIG. 35) that is the electro-optical elementrelatively move. In the present embodiment, the shift control unit 262(control unit) causes the lens shift mechanism 80 (moving mechanism) tomove the projection lens 3 with respect to the rotation state of each ofthe holders (second holder 40 and third holder 50). The shift controlunit 262 causes the storage unit 240 to store information on themovement position of the projection lens 3. After the detection unitsdetect the rotation states, the shift control unit 262 refers to theinformation on the movement position stored in the storage unit 240 forthe detected rotation states (step S262). Then, the projection lens 3 ismoved to the stored movement position by the lens shift mechanism 80(step S264). Since the projection lens 3 is moved to the movementposition corresponding to the rotation states, the projection lens 3 canbe quickly moved to the movement position corresponding to the rotationstates by performing appropriate control in consideration of therelation between both.

When the main body operating unit 6 (reception unit) has received theoperation of the lens shift mechanism 80 (moving mechanism) by the user(YES in step S266), the shift control unit 262 (control unit) causes thelens shift mechanism 80 to move the projection lens 3 according to thecontent (movement direction and amount) of the received operation (stepS268). In this case (when the movement position is changed by theoperation of the user), the shift control unit 262 (control unit)updates the information on the movement position stored in the storageunit 240 in accordance with the content of the received operation andcauses the storage unit 240 to store the updated information (stepS270). With the update of the information on the movement position, theuser can move the projection lens to a desired movement position. Afterthe information is updated, the shift control unit 262 can cause theprojection lens 3 to move to the updated and stored movement position,and the user does not need to repeat a similar movement operation eachtime the user uses the projection lens 3.

The above-described embodiment is one example in which the relativepositional relationship between the projection lens 3 and theelectro-optical element is changed. For example, the shift control unit262 may cause only the second holder 40 and the third holder 50 of theprojection lens 3 (a portion of the projection lens 3) to move insteadof the entire projection lens 3. Further, for example, the shift controlunit 262 may cause the DMD 22B which is the electro-optical element tomove.

Embodiment of Rotation Correction of Image

Next, rotation correction of a projection image and an OSD image will bedescribed.

FIG. 58 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of rotation correctionof an image by the CPU 210 and the display control unit 254.

In FIG. 58, the CPU 210 functioning as a control unit that performsrotation correction of an image receives detection signals indicatingthe rotation positions of the second holder 40 and the third holder 50from the first rotation position detection unit (first detection unit)70A and the second rotation position detection unit (second detectionunit) 70B, respectively. Moreover, the CPU 210 receives a detectionsignal indicating the posture of the projection apparatus main body 2that is a main body section of the projection apparatus 1, from the mainbody posture detection unit (third detection unit) 23 (step S300).

The first rotation position detection unit 70A and the second rotationposition detection unit 70B each function as a posture informationacquisition unit that acquires posture information indicating a postureof the projection lens 3 (hereinafter referred to as “lens posture”),and the main body posture detection unit 23 functions as a postureinformation acquisition unit that acquires posture informationindicating a posture of the projection apparatus main body 2(hereinafter referred to as “main body posture”).

The CPU 210 first determines whether or not the projection lens 3 is inthe locked state based on the detection signals input from the firstrotation position detection unit 70A and the second rotation positiondetection unit 70B (step S302). The locked state of the projection lens3 is a state in which the rotation position of the second holder 40 is0°, 90°, or 180°, the rotation position of the third holder 50 is 0°,90°, 180°, or 270°, and the unlocking operation by the first lockingmechanism 60A and the second locking mechanism 60B is disabled.

The projection lens 3 can take twelve kinds of locked states by thecombination of the rotation position (0°, 90°, 180°) of the secondholder 40 and the rotation position (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) of the thirdholder 50. Here, there are twelve specific “lens postures” of theprojection lens 3 in which the projection lens 3 is in the locked stateas illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 18. The CPU 210 can determine in whichspecific “lens posture” the current projection lens 3 is in accordancewith detection signals (detection results) input from the first rotationposition detection unit 70A and the second rotation position detectionunit 70B.

When the CPU 210 determines that the projection lens 3 is in the lockedstate, the CPU 210 determines whether or not the projection lens 3 is inthe housed state in which the projection lens 3 is housed in therecessed portion 15 of the projection apparatus main body 2 (step S304).The housed state is an aspect of the locked state of the projection lens3, and refers to a state in which the rotation position of the secondholder 40 is 90° and the rotation position of the third holder 50 is 0°(see FIG. 7).

When the CPU 210 determines that the projection lens 3 is in the lockedstate and the projection lens 3 is not in the housed state, the CPU 210determines whether or not the projection image output from the DMD 22Bfunctioning as an image output unit to the projection lens 3 has beenrotated with respect to the “reference position” due to the change inthe “lens posture” or the “main body posture” (step S306). The “mainbody posture” can be determined using the detection signal from the mainbody posture detection unit 23.

Here, the “reference position” refers to, for example, a rotationposition of an erect image on a screen when, for example, a camera isheld in a horizontal position, an image having a horizontally longaspect ratio is picked up, and the image is projected on the screenwithout rotation correction. Further, it is assumed that an angle of animage (an image angle viewed in the projection direction) at the“reference position” based on the “lens posture” and the “main bodyposture” is 0°, and an image angle in the clockwise direction ispositive.

When the CPU 210 determines that the image is rotated with respect tothe “reference position”, the CPU 210 determines whether the image isrotated by 90°, is rotated by 180°, or is rotated by 270° (−90°) withrespect to the “reference position” (step S308).

The display control unit 254 that functions as a control unit thatperforms rotation correction of an image receives the determinationresult in step S308 from the CPU 210. This determination resultcorresponds to a rotation correction command of an image, and when theimage is rotated by 90° with respect to the “reference position”, thedisplay control unit 254 causes the OSD image input from the OSD imageoutput unit 252 to be rotated by 270° (−90°) (step S310). That is, theOSD image emitted from the DMD 22B to the projection lens 3 is subjectedto rotation correction by 270°. Consequently, in the OSD image projectedon the screen, the characters (character image) of the OSD image areerected on the screen and are easily read.

Although the DMD 22B of this example has a horizontally long aspectratio, it is preferable that the OSD image has an aspect ratio (forexample, 1:1) such that a portion of the OSD image is not cut even whenthe OSD image is rotated by 90° or 270°. When a DMD 22B having an aspectratio of 1:1 (square DMD) is used, the aspect ratio of the OSD image canbe set to any aspect ratio.

In contrast, when the image is rotated by 90° with respect to the“reference position”, the display control unit 254 does not cause theprojection image input from the projection image output unit 250 to berotated. This is because when the projection image is rotated by 90° or270°, both ends of the projection image are cut. Note that correction ofrotating the projection image by 0° or 360° does not correspond to“rotation correction”.

When the projection image is rotated by 180° with respect to the“reference position”, the display control unit 254 causes the projectionimage input from the projection image output unit 250 to be rotated by180° (step S312), causes the projection image emitted from the DMD 22Bto the projection lens 3 to be rotated by 180°, and similarly causes theOSD image projected on the screen to be rotated by 180° (step S314).

Thus, rotation correction is performed on the projection image and theOSD image such that the top-bottom directions of the images are correct.Line symmetry correction is also included in the rotation correction by180°.

When the projection image is rotated by 270° with respect to the“reference position”, the display control unit 254 causes the projectionimage input from the projection image output unit 250 by 90° (stepS316). In contrast, when the image is rotated by 270° with respect tothe “reference position”, the display control unit 254 does not performthe rotation correction of the projection image.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 58, the display control unit 254performs the rotation correction on the OSD image and the projectionimage based on the determination results of the “lens posture” and the“main body posture”. However, the display control unit 254 may use atable in which the relationship between the “lens posture” and the “mainbody posture” determined by the detection signals of the first rotationposition detection unit 70A, the second rotation position detection unit70B, and the main body posture detection unit 23, and the rotationcorrection of the OSD image and the projection image is registered.Then, the display control unit 254 may acquire the execution of therotation correction and the correction angle of the OSD image and theprojection image from the table based on the detection signals of thefirst rotation position detection unit 70A, the second rotation positiondetection unit 70B, and the main body posture detection unit 23.

Each of the detection units including the first rotation positiondetection unit 70A, the second rotation position detection unit 70B, andthe main body posture detection unit 23 also includes a reception unitthat receives an instruction (rotation instruction) of the “lensposture” and an instruction of the “main body posture” from the user.Furthermore, the present invention can be also applied to a projectionapparatus in which the “main body posture” does not change.

FIGS. 59 to 62 are views illustrating the rotation correction of theprojection image and the OSD image that are subjected to the rotationcorrection as described above, and particularly illustrate the casewhere the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed.

When the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed, thereare a plurality of (twelve) specific lens postures in the locked state,and the lens posture numbers indicating the plurality of specific lenspostures are set to Nos. 1 to 12 in association with the twelve lenspostures illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 18.

As illustrated in FIGS. 59 to 62, when the lens posture numbers are Nos.2, 5, 8, and 11 (FIGS. 6, 11, 14, and 17), the image angles viewed inthe projection direction are 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270°, respectively. Notethat the lens postures having the lens posture Nos. 2, 5, 8, and 11 aretypical examples of the case where the image angles are 0°, 90°, 180°,and 270°, respectively.

When there is no image input, only the OSD image is projected asillustrated in the upper part of each of FIGS. 59 to 62. When there isan image input, a composite image of the projection image and the OSDimage is projected as illustrated in the lower part of each of FIGS. 59to 62.

The circular area illustrated in each of FIGS. 59 to 62 indicates therange in which projection can be performed by the projection lens 3, and“upper” indicates the orientation of an image before rotationcorrection.

As illustrated in FIGS. 59 to 62, when the image angle is one of 90°,180°, and 270°, rotation correction by corresponding one of 270° (−90°),180°, and 90° is performed. Consequently, the characters of the OSDimage are always displayed erect.

In contrast, when the image angle of the input projection image is 180°,rotation correction by 180° is performed. Thus, when the image angle isother than 180° (90°, 270°), rotation correction of the projection imageis not performed, and the projection image is displayed in a verticallylong state (vertically displayed).

As described above, the rotation correction method of the projectionimage differs from the rotation correction method of the OSD image.

Another Embodiment of Rotation Correction of Projection Image

FIG. 63 is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of rotationcorrection of a projection image. In FIG. 63, portions common to thosein the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 58 are denoted by the same stepnumbers, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

In FIG. 63, when the CPU 210 determines that the image rotates withrespect to the “reference position” due to a change in the “lensposture” or the “main body posture” (“Yes” in step S306), the CPU 210determines whether the first correction mode or the second correctionmode is set as the correction mode for performing rotation correction onthe projection image (step S320). The setting of the first correctionmode or the setting of the second correction mode can be appropriatelyperformed by the user operating the main body operating unit 6.

The first correction mode is a correction mode in which rotationcorrection is performed on the projection image by 180° when the imageis rotated by 180° with respect to the “reference position”. The secondcorrection mode is a correction mode in which rotation correction isperformed on the projection image by 180° when the image is rotated by180° with respect to the “reference position”, and rotation correctionis performed on the projection image by 180° also when the image isrotated by 90° with respect to the “reference position”.

When the CPU 210 determines that the first correction mode is set instep S320, the CPU 210 subsequently determines whether or not the imageis rotated by 180° with respect to the “reference position” (step S322).

The display control unit 254 receives the determination result in stepS322 from the CPU 210. This determination result corresponds to arotation correction command of an image, and when the image is rotatedby 180° with respect to the “reference position”, the display controlunit 254 causes the projection image input from the projection imageoutput unit 250 to rotate by 180° (step S324).

In contrast, in the case of the first correction mode, when the image isrotated by 90° or 270° with respect to the “reference position”, thedisplay control unit 254 does not cause the projection image input fromthe projection image output unit 250 to rotate.

When the CPU 210 determines that the second correction mode is set instep S320, the CPU 210 subsequently determines whether or not the imageis rotated by 270° with respect to the “reference position” (step S326).

The display control unit 254 receives the determination result in stepS326 from the CPU 210, and when the image is rotated by 270° withrespect to the “reference position”, the CPU 210 does not cause theprojection image input from the projection image output unit 250 torotate. In contrast, when the image is not rotated by 270° with respectto the “reference position” (that is, when the image is rotated by 90°and 180°), the display control unit 254 causes the projection imageinput from the projection image output unit 250 to rotate by 180° (stepS324).

FIG. 64 is a table summarizing the rotation correction of the projectionimage subjected to the rotation correction as described above, andillustrates the case where the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed similarly to FIG. 59.

As illustrated in FIG. 64, when the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2, 5,8, and 11, the image angles viewed in the projection direction are 0°,90°, 180°, and 270°, respectively.

In the first correction mode, when the image angle is 180°, rotationcorrection by 180° is performed. Thus, rotation correction is performedon the projection image projected in a horizontally long manner suchthat the top-bottom direction is correct.

In contrast, in the second correction mode, when the image angle is 90°or 180°, rotation correction by 180° is performed. Thus, rotationcorrection is performed on the projection image projected in ahorizontally long manner such that the top-bottom direction is correct.Rotation correction is performed on the projection image projected in avertically long manner such that “upper” in the top-bottom direction ofthe projection image is always on the left side in FIG. 56. This makesit possible to align the top-bottom directions of projection imagesprojected in a vertically long manner.

In this example, in the second correction mode, the rotation correctionis performed such that “upper” in the top-bottom direction of theprojection image is on the left side; however, rotation correction maybe performed such that “upper” in the top-bottom direction of theprojection image is on the right side.

When a square DMD is used as the DMD 22B, the correction angle of theprojection image may include an angle other than 0° and 180°. In thiscase, rotation correction can be performed such that the top-bottomdirection of the projection image is always correct.

Embodiment of OSD Image Displayed by Projection Apparatus 1

FIG. 65 is a diagram illustrating an example of an OSD image displayedby the projection apparatus 1, and particularly illustrates an OSD imagerelating to an operation manual.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 65, an OSD image for supporting theoperations for the “main body posture” and the “lens posture” isdisplayed when the posture of a vertically long projection image (theupper direction of the image is the left side) projected on a projectionsurface (wall) is changed on the same projection surface (in thisexample, when the top-bottom direction of the projection image is thecorrect top-bottom direction). The OSD image in this case is supportinformation for supporting the operations for the “main body posture”and the “lens posture”.

The CPU 210 illustrated in FIG. 45 can determine the “main body posture”of the projection apparatus main body 2 from the detection signal of themain body posture detection unit 23, and can determine the “lensposture” of the projection lens 3 from the respective detection signalsof the first rotation position detection unit 70A and the secondrotation position detection unit 70B.

When the CPU 210 receives the instruction input requesting the operationsupport for the “main body posture” and the “lens posture” from the mainbody operating unit 6, the CPU 210 causes the OSD image output unit 252to output a corresponding “OSD image” (an OSD image illustrated in FIG.56) based on the determined current “main body posture” and “lensposture”.

By viewing the OSD image illustrated in FIG. 65, the user can understandhow to operate the “main body posture” and the “lens posture”. In thisexample, the horizontally placed projection apparatus main body 2 isrotated by 90°, and the third holder 50 of the projection lens 3illustrated in FIG. 33 is rotated by −90° (270°). Thus, the top-bottomdirection of the projection image can be set to the correct top-bottomdirection.

FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating another example of an OSD imagedisplayed by the projection apparatus 1, and particularly illustrates anOSD image relating to the operation manual.

In FIG. 66, when the projection apparatus 1 is currently projecting aprojection image on a wall surface W1, support information forsupporting the “main body posture” and the “lens posture” in a case ofprojecting the projection image on a wall surface W2 different from thewall surface W1 is displayed.

Here, it is displayed that, when the third holder 50 of the projectionlens 3 illustrated in FIG. 33 is rotated by 90° in order to project theprojection image on the wall surface W2, the projection image is alsorotated (rotated by 90°). That is, the OSD image illustrated in FIG. 56notifies the user of an example of a change in the posture of theprojection image when the rotation state of the projection lens 3 ischanged. By viewing the OSD image illustrated in FIG. 66, the userunderstands that the user may rotate the third holder 50 of theprojection lens 3 by 90° in order to display the projection image in avertically long manner on the wall surface W2.

In contrast, there is displayed information that, when the horizontallyplaced projection apparatus main body 2 is rotated by 90° in the planein which the projection apparatus main body 2 is installed (when theorientation in the plane is changed), the same projection image as theprojection image projected on the wall surface W1 is projected on thewall surface W2 different from the wall surface W1. By viewing the OSDimage illustrated in FIG. 66, the user understands that the user mayrotate the projection apparatus main body 2 by 90° in the plane in whichthe projection apparatus main body 2 is installed when the user wants todisplay the projection image in a horizontally long manner on the wallsurface W2.

Although not illustrated in FIGS. 65 and 66, it is possible to displayinformation (vertically long, horizontally long, rotation angle, and soforth) relating to a change in the projection direction and posture ofthe projection image when the posture of the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is changed from horizontal placement to vertical placement, andthereby to use the information as support information for projecting adesired projection image on the projection surface.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 65 and 66, with the OSD image,the user is notified of the support information for supporting theoperation for the “main body posture” and the “lens posture”. However,without being limited to the notification unit that uses the OSD image,when the projection apparatus 1 includes a display device such as aliquid crystal monitor, the projection apparatus 1 may cause the displaydevice (notification unit) to display the support information. When theprojection apparatus 1 includes a voice notification function, the usermay be notified of the support information using the voice notificationfunction.

Projection Apparatus Kit

A projection apparatus kit is constituted of the projection apparatus 1and an information medium having recorded therein support information(for example, support information as illustrated in FIGS. 65 and 66) forsupporting an operation when a projection image is projected in adesired posture on any projection surface.

When the support information is recorded in the information medium, theprojection apparatus 1 of the projection apparatus kit may not includethe function of notifying the user of the support information forsupporting the operation of the “main body posture” and the “lensposture” as illustrated in FIGS. 65 and 66 using the OSD image.

The information medium includes, for example, a paper medium and arecording medium having digital information recorded therein, such as acompact disc read only memory (CD-ROM) and a digital versatile disc(DVD).

The information medium is packaged together with the projectionapparatus 1 and can be distributed as a projection apparatus kit.

The user can acquire, from the information medium, support informationfor supporting an operation when a projection image is projected in adesired posture on any projection surface.

The information recorded in the information medium is not limited to thesupport information itself, but includes access information (forexample, uniform resource locator (URL)) for making an access to awebsite and acquiring support information from the website.

Embodiment of Shift Correction of Image

Next, control on the lens shift mechanism 80 (see FIG. 40) for movingthe projection lens 3 with respect to the DMD 22B which is theelectro-optical element illustrated in FIG. 35 will be described.

FIG. 67 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus 1and shift states of a projection image when the projection apparatusmain body 2 is horizontally placed and the posture of the projectionlens 3 is the second lens posture to the sixth lens posture (lensposture Nos. 2 to 6). Respective perspective views of the projectionapparatus 1 when the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontallyplaced and the posture of the projection lens 3 is the second lensposture to the sixth lens posture are as illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 12.

FIG. 68 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus 1and shift states of a projection image when the projection apparatusmain body 2 is horizontally placed and the posture of the projectionlens 3 is the seventh lens posture to the twelfth lens posture (lensposture Nos. 7 to 12). Respective perspective views of the projectionapparatus 1 when the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontallyplaced and the posture of the projection lens 3 is the seventh lensposture to the twelfth lens posture are as illustrated in FIGS. 13 to18.

In contrast, FIG. 69 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projectionapparatus 1 and shift states of a projection image when the projectionapparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and the posture of theprojection lens 3 is the second lens posture to the sixth lens posture(lens posture Nos. 2 to 6). Respective perspective views of theprojection apparatus 1 when the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed and the posture of the projection lens 3 is thesecond lens posture to the sixth lens posture are as illustrated inFIGS. 20 to 24.

FIG. 70 is a schematic diagram illustrating the projection apparatus 1and shift states of a projection image when the projection apparatusmain body 2 is vertically placed and the posture of the projection lens3 is the seventh lens posture to the twelfth lens posture (lens postureNos. 7 to 12). Respective perspective views of the projection apparatus1 when the projection apparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and theposture of the projection lens 3 is the seventh lens posture to thetwelfth lens posture are as illustrated in FIGS. 25 to 30.

The CPU 210 and shift control unit 262 functioning as the control unitillustrated in FIG. 45 control driving of the lens shift mechanism 80functioning as the shift unit to move the projection lens 3 in a planeintersecting with the axial direction of the first rotation axis θ1.

By this movement of the projection lens 3, the position of the imagedisplay unit 22 with respect to the first optical axis Z1 of theprojection lens 3 illustrated in FIG. 35 changes in a planeperpendicular to the first optical axis Z1, and the projection imageprojected from the projection lens 3 can be shifted.

The circular area illustrated in each of FIGS. 67 to 70 indicates therange in which projection can be performed by the projection lens 3, andthe rectangular area in the circular area indicates the projectionimage. By moving the projection lens 3 by the lens shift mechanism 80,the projection image can be shifted within the circular area in whichprojection can be performed. When the projection image is shifted beyondthe circular region in which projection can be performed (when theprojection lens 3 is moved by the lens shift mechanism 80), theprojection image emitted from the image display unit 22 interferes withthe projection lens 3, and “vignetting” occurs.

As illustrated in FIGS. 67 to 70, the direction in which the projectionimage is shifted differs depending on the “lens posture” of theprojection lens 3 and the “main body posture” of the projectionapparatus main body 2. Details of the direction in which the projectionimage is shifted will be described later.

Next, definitions of the “lens posture” and the “shift correctiondirection” for determining the “direction in which the projection imageis shifted” will be described.

FIG. 71 provides drawings that define positions of the projection lens 3with respect to the projection apparatus main body 2.

The position of the projection lens 3 with respect to the projectionapparatus main body 2 is defined with reference to the position of theprojection lens 3 with respect to the projection apparatus main body 2when the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed. Thatis, in part (A) of FIG. 71, when the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed, the emission optical system of the projection lens3 (third optical system third lens group G33 in FIG. 35) is located onthe lower side with respect to the projection apparatus main body 2. Inthis case, the position of the projection lens with respect to theprojection apparatus main body is defined as the lower side in bothcases where the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontally placedand vertically placed.

Similarly, in part (B) of FIG. 71, when the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is horizontally placed, the emission optical system of theprojection lens 3 is located on the upper side with respect to theprojection apparatus main body 2. In this case, the position of theprojection lens with respect to the projection apparatus main body isdefined as the upper side in both cases where the projection apparatusmain body 2 is horizontally placed and vertically placed. In part (C)and part (D) of FIG. 71, the emission optical system of the projectionlens 3 is located at the main body center of the projection apparatusmain body 2. In this case, the position of the projection lens withrespect to the projection apparatus main body is defined as the mainbody center position (same).

The “position of the projection lens with respect to the projectionapparatus main body” defined as described above is used to determine thedirection in which the projection image is shifted as described later.

According to the above definition, when the lens posture numbers of theprojection lens 3 are Nos. 2, 4, 6, and 8 (see FIGS. 67 and 68), theposition of the projection lens 3 with respect to the projectionapparatus main body 2 is “upper side”. When the lens posture numbers ofthe projection lens 3 are Nos. 3, 5, 7, and 9, the position of theprojection lens 3 with respect to the projection apparatus main body 2is “lower side”. When the lens posture numbers of the projection lens 3are Nos. 10, 11, and 12, the position of the projection lens 3 withrespect to the projection apparatus main body 2 is the “main body centerposition” (same).

FIG. 72 is a diagram defining whether or not the projection apparatusmain body 2 (main body) exists in front in the projection direction.

In the lens postures in part (A) and part (B) of FIG. 72, a portion ofthe projection apparatus main body 2 exists on the side of the emissiondirection along the third optical axis Z3 in FIG. 35 with respect to aplane including the emission optical system (third optical system thirdlens group G33 in FIG. 35). In such a lens posture, it is defined thatthe projection apparatus main body exists in front in the projectiondirection (Yes).

In contrast, in the lens postures in part (C) of FIG. 72, a portion ofthe projection apparatus main body 2 does not exist on the side of theemission direction along the third optical axis Z3 in FIG. 35 withrespect to a plane including the emission optical system (third opticalsystem third lens group G33 in FIG. 35). In such a lens posture, it isdefined that the projection apparatus main body does not exist in frontin the projection direction (NO).

Thus, when the lens posture numbers are Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, themain body exists in front in the projection direction, and when the lensposture numbers are Nos. 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, the main body does notexist in front in the projection direction.

When the projection apparatus main body 2 exists in front in theprojection direction (when “main body in front in projection direction”in FIG. 75A, FIG. 75B, FIG. 76A, and FIG. 76B is “Yes”), “vignetting” ofthe projection image may occur due to the projection apparatus main body2. In contrast, when the main body does not exist in front in theprojection direction (when “main body in front in projection direction”in FIG. 75A, FIG. 75B, FIG. 76A, and FIG. 76B is “NO”), “vignetting” ofthe projection image due to the projection apparatus main body 2 doesnot occur.

The information on whether or not the main body exists in front in theprojection direction is used to determine the direction in which theprojection image is shifted.

FIG. 73 is a diagram defining “shift correction directions” of aprojection image.

The upper part of FIG. 73 illustrates a projection image when the lensposture number of the projection lens 3 illustrated in FIG. 67 is No. 6,and the lower part of FIG. 73 illustrates a projection image when thelens posture number of the projection lens 3 illustrated in FIG. 68 isNo. 7.

The projection image illustrated in FIG. 73 is projected in a verticallylong manner. As illustrated in FIG. 73, the “shift correction direction”of the projection image is defined with reference to the actual“projection image”.

For example, regarding the “shift correction direction” for the“projection image” in the upper part of FIG. 73, the shift correctiondirection in the case of shifting the “projection image” to the rightside is upper, and the shift correction direction in the case ofshifting the “projection image” to the left side is lower, on the papersurface of FIG. 73. Moreover, the shift correction direction in the caseof shifting the “projection image” to the upper side is left, and theshift correction direction in the case of shifting the “projectionimage” to the lower side is right, on the paper surface of FIG. 73.

Basic Idea of Direction in which Projection Image is Shifted whenProjection Apparatus Main Body is Horizontally Placed

(1) When “vignetting” due to the main body occurs in a projection image,the image is shifted in a direction in which the “vignetting” isreduced.

(2) When a projection image is projected on a wall surface, theprojection image is shifted in a direction away from the main body.

The projection lens is above the main body: shift the “projection image”in the upper direction (As described above, note that the shiftdirection on the basis of the “projection image” and the “shiftcorrection direction” do not necessarily coincide with each other.)

The projection lens is below the main body: shift the “projection image”in the lower direction

The projection lens is at the main body center: shift the “projectionimage” in the upper direction (Shift the projection image in a directionaway from the floor based on placement on the floor.)

(3) When a projection image is projected on a top surface or a floorsurface, the projection image is shifted in a direction away from themain body.

When the “shift correction direction” is determined according to (1),(2), and (3) described above, (1) and (2) or (1) and (3) may conflictwith each other; however, in this case, the “shift correction direction”according to (1) is prioritized.

According to the basic idea of the “shift direction” described above,the “shift correction direction” when the lens posture numbers are Nos.2 and 9 illustrated in FIGS. 67 and 68 is the upper direction, and the“shift correction direction” when the lens posture numbers are Nos. 3,8, and 10 is the lower direction. Further, the “shift correctiondirection” when the lens posture numbers are Nos. 4, 5, 11, and 12 isthe right direction, and the “shift correction direction” when the lensposture numbers are Nos. 6 and 7 is the left direction.

When the lens posture numbers illustrated in FIGS. 67 and 68 are Nos. 2to 7, the main body exists in front in the projection direction, and“vignetting” may occur in the projection image. Thus, in the case ofthese lens postures, the projection image is shifted in a direction inwhich “vignetting” is reduced. When the lens posture numbers are Nos. 6and 7, “vignetting” occurs in the projection image even after shiftcorrection.

When the lens posture numbers illustrated in FIGS. 67 and 68 are Nos. 8to 10, the main body does not exist in front in the projectiondirection, and the projection image is projected in the wall direction.Thus, in the case of these lens postures, the projection image isshifted in a direction away from the projection apparatus main body 2 inaccordance with the definition of “position of projection lens withrespect to main body” illustrated in FIG. 71. When the projection lens 3is located on the upper side of the projection apparatus main body 2(lens posture No. 8) and when the projection lens 3 is positioned at themain body center of the projection apparatus main body 2 (lens postureNo. 10), the projection image is shifted in the upper direction (in thelower direction according to the definition of “shift correctiondirection”) on the basis of the “projection image” actually projected onthe wall surface. When the projection lens 3 is located on the lowerside of the projection apparatus main body 2, the projection image isshifted in the lower direction (in the upper direction according to thedefinition of “shift correction direction”) on the basis of the“projection image” actually projected on the wall surface.

When the lens posture numbers illustrated in FIGS. 67 and 68 are Nos. 11and 12, the “main body in front in projection direction” does not exist,and the projection images are projected in the ceiling direction and thefloor direction, respectively. Thus, in the case of these lens postures,the projection image is shifted in a direction away from the projectionapparatus main body 2.

Basic Idea of Direction in which Projection Image is Shifted whenProjection Apparatus Main Body is Vertically Placed

(1) When “vignetting” due to the main body occurs in a projection image,the projection image is shifted in a direction in which the “vignetting”is reduced.

(2) When a projection image is projected on a wall surface, theprojection image is shifted in a direction away from the floor.

(3) When a projection image is projected on a top surface or a floorsurface, the projection image is shifted in a direction away from themain body.

According to the basic idea of the “shift direction” described above,the “shift correction direction” when the lens posture numbers of theprojection lens 3 are Nos. 2, 5, and 9 illustrated in FIGS. 69 and 70 isthe upper direction, and the “shift correction direction” when the lensposture numbers are Nos. 3, 4, and 8 is the lower direction. Further,the “shift correction direction” when the lens posture numbers are Nos.11 and 12 is the right direction, and the “shift correction direction”when the lens posture numbers are Nos. 6, 7, and 10 is the leftdirection.

When the lens posture numbers of the projection lens 3 are Nos. 2 to 7illustrated in FIGS. 69 and 70, the “main body in front in projectiondirection” exists, and “vignetting” may occur in the projection image.Thus, in the case of these lens postures, the projection image isshifted in a direction in which “vignetting” is reduced. When the lensposture numbers are Nos. 6 and 7, “vignetting” occurs in the projectionimage even after the shift correction.

When the lens posture numbers of the projection lens 3 are Nos. 8 to 10,the main body does not exist in front in the projection direction, and aprojection image is projected in the ceiling direction. Thus, in thecase of these lens postures, the projection image is shifted in adirection away from the projection apparatus main body 2.

In the case of the “lens posture” having the lens posture Nos. 11 and12, the “main body in front in projection direction” does not exist, andthe projection image is projected in the wall direction. Thus, in thecase of these lens postures, the projection image is shifted in adirection away from the floor.

Shift Amount

Next, the shift amount of a projection image (the movement amount of theprojection lens 3 by the lens shift mechanism 80) will be described.

FIG. 74 is a plan view of the housing 14 of the projection apparatusmain body 2 for explaining the shift amount of a projection image whenthe projection apparatus main body is horizontally placed (a view of thehousing 14 viewed from the upper side when the projection apparatus mainbody 2 is horizontally placed).

As illustrated in FIG. 74, the housing 14 has a base portion 14G and aprotruding portion 14H protruding from the base portion 14G, and therecessed portion 15 adjacent to the protruding portion 14H in a firstdirection is formed. The projection lens 3 is disposed in the recessedportion 15.

In FIG. 74, the first direction in which the protruding portion 14H andthe recessed portion 15 are adjacent to each other has a 1A directionthat is one side in the first direction and a 1B direction that is theother side in the first direction, and the protruding portion 14H islocated on the side of the 1A direction with respect to the recessedportion 15.

A second direction intersecting with the first direction has a 2Adirection that is one side in the second direction and a 2B directionthat is the other side in the second direction, and the base portion 14Gis located on the side of the 2A direction.

In the projection apparatus 1 having the housing 14 with theabove-described shape and the projection lens 3 disposed in the recessedportion 15, when “the position of the projection lens with respect tothe projection apparatus main body” is the upper side or the lower sideand the projection lens 3 projects a projection image in the 1Adirection, the 1B direction, and the 2A direction, “projection apparatusmain body in front in projection direction” exists and “vignetting”occurs in the projection image. The lens posture numbers of theprojection lens 3 when the projection lens 3 projects a projection imagein the 1A direction, the 1B direction, the 2A direction, and the 2Bdirection are Nos. 6, 4, 2, and 8, respectively (see FIGS. 67 and 68).

Thus, when the upper surface of the housing 14 illustrated in FIG. 74 isset as a “reference surface”, the shift direction of the projectionimage is changed between the case where the projection direction of theprojection lens 3 is in the direction in the same plane as the“reference surface” and the case where the projection direction of theprojection lens 3 is in the direction intersecting with the direction inthe same plane.

That is, in the case of the “lens posture” illustrated in part (A) andpart (B) of FIG. 71 (see lens posture Nos. 5 and 6 of FIG. 67), theprojection image is shifted in the direction in the same plane as the“reference surface” and in the direction perpendicular to the “referencesurface”. In contrast, in the case of the “lens posture” illustrated inpart (C) and part (D) of FIG. 71 (see lens posture Nos. 11 and 12 inFIG. 68), since the projection image can be shifted only in a directionin the same plane as the “reference surface”, the projection image isshifted in the direction in the same plane as the “reference surface”.

When the projection direction of the projection lens 3 is a direction inthe same plane as the “reference surface” of the projection apparatusmain body 2, the projection image is shifted in a direction intersectingwith the direction in the same plane as the “reference surface” in orderto reduce “vignetting” of the projection image. When the projectiondirection of the projection lens 3 is a direction intersecting with the“reference surface” of the projection apparatus main body 2, theprojection image is shifted in a direction in the same plane as the“reference surface”.

In addition, it is preferable that the shift amount of the projectionimage is changed in accordance with the “lens posture”. When theprojection direction of the projection lens 3 is on the side on whichthe housing 14 is located, the shift amount of the projection image ismade larger than that when the projection direction is on the sideopposite to the side on which the housing 14 is located. Regarding theshift amount of the projection image, since the presence of “vignetting”of the projection image and the magnitude of the “vignetting” change inaccordance with the “lens posture”, the shift amount of the projectionimage is preferably changed in accordance with the presence of“vignetting” and the magnitude of the “vignetting”. That is, as the“vignetting” is larger, the shift amount of the projection image isincreased to reduce the “vignetting” of the projection image.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 74, the “vignetting” when theprojection lens projects the projection image to the side of the 1Adirection is larger than the “vignetting” when the projection lensprojects the projection image to the side of the 1B direction and theside of the 2A direction, and the “vignetting” does not occur when theprojection lens projects the projection image to the side of the 2Bdirection.

Thus, when the projection lens 3 performs projection to the side of the1A direction, the shift amount of the projection lens 3 is made largerthan that when the projection lens 3 performs projection to the side ofthe 1B direction. The shift amount of the projection lens 3 is madelarger when the projection lens 3 performs projection to the side of the2A direction than that when the projection lens 3 performs projection tothe side of the 2B direction. Similarly, the shift amount of theprojection lens 3 is made larger when the projection lens 3 performsprojection to the side of the 1B direction than that when the projectionlens 3 performs projection to the side of the 2B direction.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 74, the shift amount when theprojection lens 3 projects the projection image to the side of the 1Adirection is +3, the shift amount when the projection lens 3 projectsthe projection image to the side of the 1B direction and to the side ofthe 2A direction is +2.5, and the shift amount when the projection lens3 projects the projection image to the side of the 2B direction is +2.The numerical values (+3, +2.5, and +2) indicating the shift amounts arenumerical values indicating relative magnitudes of the shift amounts.

The shift amount of the projection image is not limited to the casewhere the shift amount is changed in accordance with the “lens posture”.For example, when the zoom optical system of the projection lens 3 is ina wide angle state, the shift amount may be larger than that when thezoom optical system is in a telephoto state.

Rotation Correction and Shift Correction of Image

FIGS. 75 to 78 are tables summarizing rotation correction and shiftcorrection of an image.

FIG. 75A, FIG. 75B, FIG. 76A, and FIG. 76B illustrate rotationcorrection, shift correction, and so forth of an image for each oftwelve lens postures when the projection apparatus main body 2 ishorizontally placed, and FIG. 77A, FIG. 77B, FIG. 78A, and FIG. 78Billustrate rotation correction, shift correction, and so forth of animage for each of twelve lens postures when the projection apparatusmain body 2 is vertically placed.

When the lens posture number of the projection lens 3 is No. 1, theprojection lens 3 is in the housed state in which projection is notpossible, and thus rotation correction and shift correction of an imageare not performed.

According to FIG. 75A, FIG. 75B, FIG. 76A, and FIG. 76B, when theprojection apparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed and the lensposture numbers of the projection lens 3 are Nos. 11 and 12, theprojection images are projected on the top surface and the floorsurface, respectively, and the “shift amounts” in this case are each +1.This is because “vignetting” of the projection image does not occur inthe case of the “lens postures” of the lens posture Nos. 11 and 12.

Similarly, according to FIG. 77A, FIG. 77B, FIG. 78A, and FIG. 78B, whenthe projection apparatus main body 2 is vertically placed and the lensposture Numbers of the projection lens 3 are Nos. 2 and 3, theprojection image is projected on the floor surface, and when the lensposture numbers are Nos. 8 to 10, the projection image is projected onthe top surface. The “shift amounts” in the former case are each +1.5,and the “shift amounts” in the latter case are each +1. These “shiftamounts” are merely examples, and the shift amounts are not limitedthereto. Further, a “shift amount” may be fixed to the maximum value ofa shift allowable range. Furthermore, an aspect in which shiftcorrection is not performed may be considered depending on the “lensposture”.

When the projection apparatus main body 2 is horizontally placed, theprojection apparatus main body 2 is installed with the horizontalplacement leg portions 12 facing the floor surface side (FIG. 1);however, the horizontal placement leg portions 12 may be disposed toface the top surface side.

When the projection apparatus main body 2 is installed with thehorizontal placement leg portions 12 facing the top surface side, therotation correction amount of an OSD image needs to be rotated by ±180°as compared to the case where the horizontal placement leg portions 12are disposed to face the floor surface side, and similarly, thecorrection amount of a projection image needs to be rotated by ±180° ascompared to the case where the horizontal placement leg portions 12 aredisposed to face the floor surface side. The “main body posture” whenthe projection apparatus main body 2 is installed with the horizontalplacement leg portions 12 facing the top surface side can be detected bythe main body posture detection unit 23 constituted of an accelerationsensor.

FIG. 79 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of shift correction ofan image by the CPU 210 and the shift control unit 262. Note that thesame step numbers are applied to portions common to those in theflowchart illustrating the embodiment of “rotation correction of image”illustrated in FIG. 58 and detailed description thereof is omitted.

In FIG. 79, when the CPU 210 functioning as the control unit thatperforms shift correction of an image determines that the projectionlens 3 is in the locked state and that the projection lens 3 is not inthe housed state by processing of steps S300, S302, and S304, the CPU210 subsequently determines whether or not the “main body posture” ishorizontal placement (step S330). The “main body posture” can bedetermined using a detection signal from the main body posture detectionunit 23.

When the “main body posture” is horizontal placement, the CPU 210determines whether or not the current “lens posture” is included in thelens posture Nos. 2 and 9 (step S332).

When the shift control unit 262 that functions as a control unit thatperforms shift correction of an image receives, from the CPU 210, adetermination result that the “lens posture” is included in the lensposture Nos. 2 and 9, the shift control unit 262 controls driving of thelens shift mechanism 80 to shift the projection image in the upperdirection (in the upper direction in the definition of the “shiftcorrection direction”) (step S338).

When the current “lens posture” is not included in the lens posture Nos.2 and 9, the CPU 210 determines whether or not the “lens posture” isincluded in the lens posture Nos. 3, 8, and 10 (step S334). When theshift control unit 262 receives the determination result that the “lensposture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 3, 8, and 10 from the CPU210, the shift control unit 262 controls driving of the lens shiftmechanism 80 to shift the projection image in the lower directiondefined by the “shift correction direction” (step S340).

When the current “lens posture” is not included in the lens posture Nos.3, 8, and 10, the CPU 210 determines whether or not the current “lensposture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 6 and 7 (step S336). Whenthe shift control unit 262 receives the determination result that the“lens posture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 6 and 7 from the CPU210, the shift control unit 262 controls driving of the lens shiftmechanism 80 to shift the projection image in the left direction definedby the “shift correction direction” (step S348).

When the current “lens posture” does not correspond to any lens posturenumber through the determination in steps S332, S334, and S336 (in stepS336 (in the case of “NO”)), the current “lens posture” is one of theremaining lens posture Nos. 4, 5, 11, and 12. In this case, the shiftcontrol unit 262 controls driving of the lens shift mechanism 80 toshift the projection image in the right direction defined by the “shiftcorrection direction” (step S350).

In contrast, in step S330, when the CPU 210 determines that the “mainbody posture” is vertical placement, the CPU 210 determines whether ornot the current “lens posture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 2,5, and 9 (step S342).

When the shift control unit 262 receives the determination result thatthe “lens posture” is included in the lens postures No. 2, No. 5, andNo. 9 from the CPU 210, the shift control unit 262 controls driving ofthe lens shift mechanism 80 to shift the projection image in the upperdirection defined by the “shift correction direction” (step S338).

When the current “lens posture” is not included in the lens posture Nos.2, 5, and 9, the CPU 210 determines whether or not the current “lensposture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 3, 4, and 8 (step S344).When the shift control unit 262 receives the determination result thatthe “lens posture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 3, 4, and 8 fromthe CPU 210, the shift control unit 262 controls driving of the lensshift mechanism 80 to shift the projection image in the lower directiondefined by the “shift correction direction” (step S340).

When the current “lens posture” is not included in the lens posture Nos.3, 4, and 8, the CPU 210 determines whether or not the current “lensposture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 6, 7, and 10 (step S346).When the shift control unit 262 receives the determination result thatthe “lens posture” is included in the lens posture Nos. 6, 7, and 10from the CPU 210, the shift control unit 262 controls driving of thelens shift mechanism 80 to shift the projection image in the leftdirection defined by the “shift correction direction” (step S348).

When the current “lens posture” does not correspond to any lens posturenumber through the determination in steps S342, S344, and S346 (in stepS346 (in the case of “NO”)), the current “lens posture” is one of theremaining lens posture Nos. 11 and 12. In this case, the shift controlunit 262 controls driving of the lens shift mechanism 80 to shift theprojection image in the right direction defined by the “shift correctiondirection” (step S350).

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 79, the shift correction isperformed on the projection image based on the determination results ofthe “lens posture” and the “main body posture”; however, information onthe shift correction direction of a projection image may be acquiredfrom a table for shift correction. In the table for shift correction, arelationship between a plurality of “lens postures” and “main bodypostures” being selectable when a projection image determined using therespective detection signals of the first rotation position detectionunit 70A, the second rotation position detection unit 70B, and the mainbody posture detection unit 23 is projected, and a shift correctiondirection (including a shift amount) of the projection image isregistered in advance. Then, information on the shift correctiondirection of the projection image may be acquired from the table basedon the respective detection signals of the first rotation positiondetection unit 70A, the second rotation position detection unit 70B, andthe main body posture detection unit 23.

Each of the detection units including the first rotation positiondetection unit 70A, the second rotation position detection unit 70B, andthe main body posture detection unit 23 also includes a reception unitthat receives instructions of the “lens posture” and the “main bodyposture” from the user.

Further, in the present embodiment, when the shift correction of aprojection image is performed, the projection lens is moved in the planeintersecting with the axial direction of the rotation axis (firstrotation axis) of the projection lens. However, the projection lens maynot be moved, and the DMD (electro-optical element) side that emits aprojection image to the projection lens may be moved. In short, it issufficient that the projection lens and the electro-optical element aremoved relative to each other.

Although the embodiments and other aspects of the present invention havebeen described above, the present invention is not limited to theabove-described embodiments and aspects, and various modifications canbe made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.Also, the embodiments and aspects described above may be combined.

Modification of Locking Mechanism

The first locking mechanism 60A and the second locking mechanism 60Bemployed in the projection apparatus 1 according to the above-describedembodiment are examples of the locking mechanism. It is sufficient thatthe first locking mechanism 60A is configured to lock the second holder40 at a desired position. Similarly, it is sufficient that the secondlocking mechanism 60B is configured to lock the third holder 50 at adesired position. For example, a pin and a pin hole may be used forlocking.

Modification of Lens Shift Mechanism

The lens shift mechanism 80 employed in the projection apparatus 1according to the above-described embodiment is an example of a shiftunit. The shift unit is not limited to a unit that shifts the entireprojection lens, and may be a unit that shifts a portion of theprojection lens, or may be a unit that shifts the image display unit 22with respect to the projection lens 3. Instead of the lens shiftmechanism 80 configured as described above, a known shift mechanism maybe employed.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   -   1 projection apparatus    -   2 projection apparatus main body    -   3 projection lens    -   6 main body operating unit    -   6A power supply switch    -   6B MENU key    -   6C cross key    -   6D ENTER key    -   6E BACK key    -   7 air supply portion    -   8 exhaust portion    -   9 power supply connector    -   10 video input terminal    -   11 unlocking operating unit    -   11A first unlocking switch    -   11B second unlocking switch    -   12 horizontal placement leg portion    -   13 vertical placement leg portion    -   14 housing    -   14A housing front portion    -   14B housing rear portion    -   14C housing left side portion    -   14D housing right side portion    -   14E housing top portion    -   14F housing bottom portion    -   15 recessed portion    -   15A inner wall surface    -   15 a recess    -   18 lens cover    -   18A lens cover front portion    -   18D lens cover right side portion    -   18E lens cover top portion    -   18F lens cover bottom portion    -   20 light source unit    -   20A laser light source    -   20B fluorescent body wheel    -   20C mirror    -   20D color wheel    -   21 Illumination unit    -   21A rod integrator    -   21B lens    -   21C lens    -   21D lens    -   21E mirror    -   21F mirror    -   22 video display unit    -   22A total reflection prism    -   22B DMD    -   23 main body posture detection unit    -   30 lens barrel    -   31 first holder    -   32 fixed frame    -   32A flange portion    -   32B straight groove    -   32C first support roller    -   32D claw portion guide groove    -   32E first locking groove portion    -   33 cam frame    -   33A first cam groove    -   33B second cam groove    -   34 first lens holding frame    -   35 second lens holding frame    -   35A first cam pin    -   35B second cam pin    -   36 third lens holding frame    -   37 zoom gear frame    -   37A gear portion    -   38 zoom motor    -   38A zoom driving gear    -   38B bracket    -   40 second holder    -   41 first rotating frame    -   41A first guide groove    -   42 first mirror holding frame    -   43 lens holding frame    -   43A second guide groove    -   50 third holder    -   51 second rotating frame    -   51A second support roller    -   51B claw portion guide groove    -   51C second locking groove portion    -   52 second mirror holding frame    -   53 helicoid frame    -   53A female helicoid portion    -   54 final lens holding frame    -   55 focus lens holding frame    -   55A male helicoid portion    -   55B connecting pin    -   56 focus gear frame    -   56A gear portion    -   58 focus motor    -   58A focus driving gear    -   58B bracket    -   60 locking mechanism    -   60A first locking mechanism    -   60B second locking mechanism    -   61A first locking claw    -   61B second locking claw    -   62A first locking claw main body    -   62B second locking claw main body    -   63A arm portion    -   64A claw portion    -   64B claw portion    -   65A connecting portion    -   65B connecting portion    -   66A long hole    -   66B long hole    -   67A screw    -   67B screw    -   68A first solenoid    -   68B second solenoid    -   68 a plunger    -   68 b plunger    -   70A first rotation position detection unit    -   70B second rotation position detection unit    -   71A first optical scale    -   71B second optical scale    -   72A first reading sensor    -   72B second reading sensor    -   80 lens shift mechanism    -   81 base plate    -   81A base opening    -   81C first slide rail    -   82 first slide plate    -   82A first opening    -   82B first groove portion    -   82C second slide rail    -   83 second slide plate    -   83A second opening    -   83B second groove portion    -   83M mount portion    -   84 first slide plate driving mechanism    -   85 second slide plate driving mechanism    -   86 first shift motor    -   86A first driving shaft    -   87 first rotating shaft    -   87A first screw portion    -   88 first moving piece    -   88A first moving piece main body    -   88B first connecting portion    -   89 first worm gear    -   89A first worm    -   89B first worm wheel    -   90 second shift motor    -   90A second driving shaft    -   91 second rotating shaft    -   91A second screw portion    -   92 second moving piece    -   92A second moving piece main body    -   92B second connecting portion    -   93 second worm gear    -   93A second worm    -   93B second worm wheel    -   98 projection image    -   99A OSD image    -   99B OSD image    -   99C OSD image    -   99D OSD image    -   99E OSD image    -   99F OSD image    -   G1 first optical system    -   G11 first optical system first lens group    -   G12 first optical system second lens group    -   G13 first optical system third lens group    -   G14 first optical system fourth lens group    -   G2 second optical system    -   G21 second optical system first lens group    -   G22 second optical system second lens group    -   G3 third optical system    -   G31 third optical system first lens group    -   G32 third optical system second lens group    -   G33 third optical system third lens group    -   R1 first mirror    -   R2 second mirror    -   S100 to S270 each step of control relating to projection lens    -   S300 to S350 each step of control relating to projection lens    -   X arrow    -   Y arrow    -   Z1 first optical axis    -   Z2 second optical axis    -   Z3 third optical axis    -   α first direction    -   β second direction    -   θ1 first rotating shaft    -   θ2 second rotating shaft

What is claimed is:
 1. A projection apparatus comprising: a housing; apower supply; a light source; a control unit; and a projection lensattached to the housing, the projection lens having a holder, adetection unit that detects a rotation state of the holder, an emissionoptical system, and a locking mechanism unit that brings rotation of theholder into a locked state or an unlocked state, wherein the projectionlens is displaceable by rotating the holder, between a first position atwhich a rotation state of the holder is a housed state in which anextending direction of an optical axis of the emission optical systemfaces the housing and a second position at which the extending directiondoes not face the housing, wherein the second position includes an upperposition at which the emission optical system faces an upper side in avertical direction, wherein the control unit keeps the light sourceturned off in a case where the power supply is turned on in a statewhere the holder is at the first position, or the control unit turns onthe light source in a case where the projection lens is displaced fromthe second position to the first position in a state where the lightsource is turned on, and wherein the control unit turns on the lightsource, in a case where the power supply is turned on and the projectionlens is at the upper position.
 2. The projection apparatus according toclaim 1, further comprising: wherein the control unit turns off thepower supply in a case where an operation to turn off the power supplyis input and in a case where a rotation state of the holder is thehoused state.
 3. The projection apparatus according to claim 1, furthercomprising: a moving mechanism configured to move the projection lenswith respect to the housing, wherein the control unit moves theprojection lens to the housed position using the moving mechanism. 4.The projection apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: amoving mechanism configured to move the projection lens with respect tothe housing, wherein the control unit moves the projection lens to thehoused position using the moving mechanism.
 5. The projection apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising a moving mechanism configuredto move the projection lens with respect to the housing, wherein theprojection lens comprises a cover member, wherein the housing has: abottom surface facing a mounting surface on which the housing ismounted; and a first surface which intersects with the bottom surfaceand is a side surface with respect to the bottom surface, wherein thecover member has a second surface intersecting with a plane whichcoincides with the bottom surface in a case where the rotation state ofthe holder is the housed state, and wherein the control unit moves theprojection lens to the housed position where the first surface is on asame plate as the second surface, using the moving mechanism.
 6. Theprojection apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a movingmechanism configured to move the projection lens with respect to thehousing, wherein the projection lens comprises a cover member, whereinthe housing has: a bottom surface facing a mounting surface on which thehousing is mounted; and a first surface which intersects with the bottomsurface and is a side surface with respect to the bottom surface,wherein the cover member has a second surface intersecting with a planewhich coincides with the bottom surface in a case where the rotationstate of the holder is the housed state, and wherein the control unitmoves the projection lens to the housed position where the first surfaceis on a same plate as the second surface, using the moving mechanism. 7.The projection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unitmoves the projection lens to the housed position using the movingmechanism in a case where the power supply is turned off.
 8. Theprojection apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unitmoves the projection lens to the housed position using the movingmechanism in a case where the power supply is turned off.
 9. Theprojection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unitmoves the projection lens to the housed position using the movingmechanism in a case where the power supply is turned off and a rotationstate of the holder is the housed state, and wherein the control unitmaintains a movement position of the projection lens by the movingmechanism in a case where the power supply is turned off and in a casewhere a rotation state of the holder is other than the housed state. 10.The projection apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unitmoves the projection lens to the housed position using the movingmechanism in a case where the power supply is turned off and a rotationstate of the holder is the housed state, and wherein the control unitmaintains a movement position of the projection lens by the movingmechanism in a case where the power supply is turned off and in a casewhere a rotation state of the holder is other than the housed state. 11.The projection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, in a case wherean operation of turning off the power supply has been input, before thepower supply is turned off, the control unit makes a notification ofinformation relating to a change in the rotation state of the holder ofthe projection lens.
 12. The projection apparatus according to claim 11,wherein the information is information relating to a change of therotation state to the housed position.
 13. The projection apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the holder has a first holder throughwhich light of a first optical axis emitted from the light sourcepasses, a second holder through which light of a second optical axisobtained by bending the first optical axis passes, and a third holderthrough which light of a third optical axis obtained by bending thesecond optical axis passes, wherein the second holder rotates around thefirst optical axis, and the third holder rotates around the secondoptical axis, wherein the projection lens is movable to the firstposition and the second position by a rotation of the third holder. 14.The projection apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the holder has afirst holder through which light of a first optical axis emitted fromthe light source passes, a second holder through which light of a secondoptical axis obtained by bending the first optical axis passes, and athird holder through which light of a third optical axis obtained bybending the second optical axis passes, wherein the second holderrotates around the first optical axis, and the third holder rotatesaround the second optical axis, wherein the projection lens is movableto the first position and the second position by a rotation of the thirdholder.
 15. The projection apparatus according to claim 3, wherein theholder has a first holder through which light of a first optical axisemitted from the light source passes, a second holder through whichlight of a second optical axis obtained by bending the first opticalaxis passes, and a third holder through which light of a third opticalaxis obtained by bending the second optical axis passes, wherein thesecond holder rotates around the first optical axis, and the thirdholder rotates around the second optical axis, wherein the projectionlens is movable to the first position and the second position by arotation of the third holder.
 16. The projection apparatus according toclaim 5, wherein the holder has a first holder through which light of afirst optical axis emitted from the light source passes, a second holderthrough which light of a second optical axis obtained by bending thefirst optical axis passes, and a third holder through which light of athird optical axis obtained by bending the second optical axis passes,wherein the second holder rotates around the first optical axis, and thethird holder rotates around the second optical axis, wherein theprojection lens is movable to the first position and the second positionby a rotation of the third holder.
 17. The projection apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the control unit projects an image upwardusing the light source, in a case where the projection lens is displacedfrom the first position to the upper position in a state where the powersupply is turned on.
 18. The projection apparatus according to claim 2,wherein the control unit projects an image upward using the lightsource, in a case where the projection lens is displaced from the firstposition to the upper position in a state where the power supply isturned on.
 19. The projection apparatus according to claim 3, whereinthe control unit projects an image upward using the light source, in acase where the projection lens is displaced from the first position tothe upper position in a state where the power supply is turned on. 20.The projection apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unitprojects an image upward using the light source, in a case where theprojection lens is displaced from the first position to the upperposition in a state where the power supply is turned on.